MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Ja Morant marked his return to the FedExForum with an impressive 20 points and eight assists, leading the Memphis Grizzlies to a convincing 116-103 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night. This game marked Morant’s first home appearance after a 25-game suspension and he did not disappoint the home crowd.
Desmond Bane was the top scorer for Memphis, pouring in 31 points along with seven assists. Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed significantly with 21 points and seven rebounds. Bane’s shooting was particularly effective, making 11 of 26 field goals and hitting 5 out of 12 from beyond the arc. Morant, on his part, shot a solid 7 of 15 from the field. This game marked the second consecutive victory where all three players scored at least 20 points.
Morant acknowledged the strength that Bane and Jackson bring to the team, highlighting their scoring ability and how it enhances the Grizzlies’ offense. Coach Taylor Jenkins echoed this sentiment, pointing out the team’s strong record when these players hit the 20-point mark.
The Grizzlies were still buoyed by Morant’s performance in New Orleans on Tuesday, where he scored 34 points, including a game-winning layup. His return to the team after the suspension – issued for his actions on social media – has been a significant boost.
Indiana’s effort was led by Obi Toppin with 22 points. Tyrese Haliburton added 17 points and 14 assists, while Buddy Hield and Myles Turner each contributed 15 points. Despite the loss, Pacers coach Rick Carlisle praised his team’s continuous competition and poise.
Memphis, which had led 86-77 entering the third quarter, expanded their lead to 17 points midway through the fourth and comfortably secured their second straight win. Notably, it was only the Grizzlies’ second home win of the season, contrasting their excellent home record last season.
The Pacers, coming off a high-scoring win in Charlotte, found the game against Memphis challenging, with Carlisle attributing the loss partly to missed shots and miscues.
Memphis showcased a rejuvenated spirit with Morant’s return, evident in their first-half performance where they shot 60% from the field and 50% from three-point range, at one point leading by 22 points. However, Indiana mounted a significant comeback, cutting the deficit to just two points by halftime.
The Pacers momentarily erased the Grizzlies’ lead early in the third quarter, but Memphis responded decisively to reclaim control of the game. The Grizzlies’ improved ball movement, resulting in 27 assists, was a key factor in their victory.
Coach Jenkins emphasized the importance of maintaining their style of play, which he described as “Grizzlies basketball,” for the entire game.
Looking ahead, the Pacers will host Orlando on Friday night, while the Grizzlies travel to face Atlanta in their next matchup.
