The NBA script writers just earned their holiday bonus. After being down by as many as 24, Ja Morant led the Memphis Grizzlies to a tough win over the New Orleans Pelicans with a last-second buzzer-beater — at 9:01 p.m., even. Final score: 115-113.
Let’s get into it.
The first half saw the Grizzlies getting worked over by the Pelicans and longtime Grizz killer C.J. McCollum. New Orleans outscored Memphis 39-16 in the second quarter, and the Grizzlies headed into the second half with a 19-point deficit to overcome. It was a familiar sight for Grizzlies fans, but this time it was different, because finally, the Grizzlies could do what they have needed to do all season long: Call 12.
Need a bucket? Call 12. Need a lob? Call 12. Need a clutch buzzer-beater to win the game? Call 12.
It’s fitting that was the Grizzlies’ first nationally broadcast game of the season because, in his first game back from suspension, Morant seems ready to put the league on notice.
And notice they did.
Memphis struggled from the long line, ending the night 10-31 from three-point range, but they feasted in the paint with 62 points on 31 of 47 shooting. The Grizzlies were also able to convert 11 Pelicans turnovers into 21 points, even as they struggled with turnovers of their own, giving up 26 points off 18 turnovers.
And while Ja Morant was the focal point, finishing with a team-high 34 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block, and ultimately the game-winner, this was still a team victory.
Jaren Jackson Jr closed out with 24 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Desmond Bane added 21 points and 4 assists.
From the second unit, Santi Aldama contributed 8 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 block while shooting 2 of 2 from three-point range.
The Grizzlies have a long slog ahead of them, but things are looking up for the first time this season. Don’t count them out yet.
Who Got Next?
The Grizzlies return home Thursday night to face off against the Indiana Pacers. Tip-off is at 7 PM CST.
