Ousting Thunder in 5 games gives defensive-minded Grizzlies day to rest up for Western finals

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) is fouled by Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) as he drives between Conley and forward Tayshaun Prince (21) in the second half of Game 5 of their Western Conference Semifinals NBA basketball playoff series in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, May 15, 2013. Memphis won 88-84. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) (The Associated Press)

Memphis Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley (11) and Jerryd Bayless (7) celebrate at the end of Game 5 of their Western Conference Semifinals NBA basketball playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Oklahoma City, Wednesday, May 15, 2013. Memphis won 88-84. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) (The Associated Press)

The Grizzlies are enjoying a day off after clinching the franchise's first berth in the Western Conference finals. Good thing too since they can use a little rest after all that hard work.

Memphis eliminated the defending Western champs in five games, beating Oklahoma City 88-84 on Wednesday night. The Grizzlies now wait to see if they play San Antonio or Golden State next.

Coach Lionel Hollins said Thursday it's always great to get a day away from the stress of the playoffs.

The Grizzlies faced a tall task, first shutting down the high-flying Clippers, then Kevin Durant and the Thunder. They now have won eight of nine.

Their defense-first approach also helped the Grizzlies regroup after leading scorer, Rudy Gay, was traded away in January.