The Memphis Grizzlies faced a tough challenge on Sunday in Game 1 of their 2025 playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, suffering a 131-80 blowout loss. Despite the 51-point defeat, Ja Morant remains optimistic about his team’s chances moving forward.
“We are never going to play that bad again,” Morant said in a postgame interview. The Grizzlies’ star acknowledged the disappointing performance but expressed confidence in bouncing back in Game 2.
Morant, who was dealing with an ankle issue, was asked how the injury impacted his game. “It felt good, I was available,” he reassured reporters, indicating that his health wasn’t a limiting factor in the loss.
Defensively, Morant pointed to the team’s lack of intensity, especially in the first half. “They had a lot of easy looks, which pretty much got to wherever they wanted on the floor,” he noted. The Grizzlies struggled with turnovers and poor shooting, a recipe for disaster against the high-powered Thunder.
Oklahoma City, who entered the postseason with the NBA’s best regular-season record, capitalized on Memphis’ mistakes, running up a 68-33 halftime lead. The Thunder shot 50.5% from the field and buried 17 of 48 three-pointers, overwhelming the Grizzlies with their offensive firepower and stifling defense.
“We need to take care of the ball,” Morant said when discussing his team’s offensive struggles. Memphis committed 16 turnovers, leading to easy fast-break points for Oklahoma City. The Grizzlies’ poor shooting also hampered their ability to get back into the game, with Morant himself shooting just 6-for-17.
Despite the lopsided score, Morant remained positive about the team’s potential. “If we win Tuesday, the series is 1-1. This game won’t matter,” he said.
Morant also praised his teammates, highlighting the contributions of Scotty Pippen Jr. and Marvin Bagley III, who stepped up in their playoff debut. “When their number was called to come out there and give us some energy, some spark, they did that,” Morant remarked.
