In a remarkable comeback, Ja Morant orchestrated a stunning season debut, leading the Memphis Grizzlies (7-19) to a 115-113 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans (16-12) with a game-winning floater as time expired.
Morant’s 34-point performance marked the highest point total in NBA history for a player returning from an absence of at least 25 games.
Despite trailing by 24 points in the first half, the Grizzlies fought back, taking a 113-111 lead on Morant’s inside basket with 1:22 remaining.
Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 24 points, and Desmond Bane added 21 for the Grizzlies, breaking the Pelicans’ four-game winning streak.
Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans with 34 points, while Zion Williamson, limited by foul trouble, finished with 13 points in just 24 minutes on the court.
Morant’s return was met with boos from Pelicans fans, but as the game progressed, his explosive plays and resilience earned respect.
Morant’s impact continued in the second half, making crucial plays to keep the game competitive.
