NEW ORLEANS — Ja Morant continued his impressive comeback, scoring 31 points to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a thrilling 116-115 overtime victory against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night. Since Morant’s return, the Grizzlies have gone 4-0, marking a significant turnaround from their 6-19 record during his absence.
Desmond Bane played a crucial role, scoring 27 points, including a critical three-pointer in the final minute of regulation that helped the Grizzlies erase a 15-point second-half deficit. Bane’s free throw in the closing seconds of overtime proved decisive, putting Memphis up by four points.
Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 19 points, recovering from a missed free throw at the end of regulation with key baskets in overtime to secure the lead for Memphis.
Morant, named the Western Conference Player of the Week, has been averaging 28.8 points since returning from a 25-game suspension related to his conduct on social media. His resurgence began with a 34-point game against New Orleans on December 19, including a game-winning shot.
For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson had 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Brandon Ingram added 24 points and four blocks. Jonas Valanciunas contributed a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds, and CJ McCollum scored 16 points. However, the Pelicans’ efforts weren’t enough to prevent their second consecutive home loss.
The game’s climax came in a dramatic last few seconds, filled with video reviews and foul calls. Morant’s near-miss shot led to a defensive foul being overturned upon review. A subsequent jump ball and foul call against Valanciunas on Jackson led to Jackson’s free throws, tying the game at 103. Jackson missed the second free throw, sending the game into overtime.
Marcus Smart, returning from injury, added 13 points for Memphis, including a key transition layup in overtime. His defensive prowess was on display with five steals.
Looking forward, the Grizzlies will face Denver on Thursday night, while the Pelicans will host Utah on the same day.
