Grant hits late 3 to lift Trail Blazers over Timberwolves

Portland wins third straight game despite Minnesota's late rally

Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:51am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Jerami Grant made a crucial 3-pointer with 22.2 seconds left to lift the Portland Trail Blazers to a 108-104 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night. Grant finished with 26 points, including the game-winning shot, as the Trail Blazers held on for their third straight win.

Why it matters

The win moves Portland into eighth place in the Western Conference playoff race, while Minnesota's loss comes without star guard Anthony Edwards, who remains sidelined with a knee injury. The close game highlights the tight competition in the West as teams jockey for postseason positioning.

The details

After the Trail Blazers built an 18-point lead in the first half, the Timberwolves rallied to tie the game at 79 midway through the third quarter. But Grant's late 3-pointer and two free throws sealed the victory for Portland. Donovan Clingan recorded his sixth straight double-double with 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Deni Avdija added 25 points and 8 rebounds for the Trail Blazers.

  • The game was played on Friday, March 20, 2026.
  • Grant hit the game-winning 3-pointer with 22.2 seconds remaining.

The players

Jerami Grant

A 26-year-old forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who hit the game-winning 3-pointer in the final seconds.

Donovan Clingan

A 21-year-old center for the Portland Trail Blazers who recorded his sixth straight double-double with 21 points and 12 rebounds.

Deni Avdija

A 25-year-old forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who scored 25 points and grabbed 8 rebounds.

Rudy Gobert

A 34-year-old center for the Minnesota Timberwolves who led his team with 18 points and 15 rebounds.

Anthony Edwards

An All-Star guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves who missed the game due to a right knee injury.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This close game between two Western Conference playoff contenders highlights the tight competition in the NBA this season, with teams fighting for every win to secure a postseason berth. The Trail Blazers' ability to hold on for the victory despite Minnesota's late rally demonstrates their resilience and ability to make winning plays down the stretch.