Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant capped off a stellar 34-point game with a decisive game-winning shot that secured a 115-113 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans. The performance marked his return from a 25-game NBA suspension that resulted from incidents involving him displaying a gun on social media.

Morant’s leadership was evident as he guided his team from a 24-point deficit against a thriving Pelicans team that saw a four-game winning streak end. Desmond Bane expressed how Morant’s return lifted the team’s spirit and performance, praising Morant’s infectious energy and leadership on the court.

“It felt different out there, having our guy back, our leader,” Bane said. “He does so much for us on the court, of course, and the spirit and the energy he plays with is infectious.”

The Grizzlies had struggled in Morant’s absence, with a record of 6-19, but his return has brought new hope for their postseason aspirations. Despite the hostile Smoothie King Center crowd booing him, Morant stayed focused on returning his team to success.

“There’s a lot of people that don’t like me; you see where that got ’em,” Morant said. “I don’t know what I did to the Pelicans or their fans, but hey, they got to root for their team. So, it’s all good.”

NBA NEWS & SCORES: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans Updates

Morant, acknowledging the need to regain game shape, spoke about his challenges during the game, including battling through muscle cramps. Despite this, he remained focused and executed the winning play, one that made him the focus after teammates rejected his idea of running a post-up for Jaren Jackson Jr., instead wanting Morant to take the final shot. He attacked on a drive, used a spin, and finished in the paint.

“So, at that point, I pretty much had to lock in and go deliver,” Morant said.

Coach Taylor Jenkins welcomed Morant back to the starting lineup, balancing his playtime with the need for him to readjust. Jenkins commended Morant’s enjoyable approach to the game and his significant contributions.

“My one expectation was for him to have fun, honestly,” Jenkins said. “I know the work that he’s been putting in. His teammates know the work he’s been putting in.

“I thought he did a phenomenal job,” Jenkins explained. “Just with the pace and the ball movement and obviously the high level-plays, finishes.”

NBA NEWS & SCORES: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans Updates

During his suspension, Morant was allowed to practice and travel with the team but couldn’t attend games. Jenkins highlighted his increased involvement in practices and staying connected with his teammates virtually during this period.

“I’ve been really proud of his commitment every single day with the amount of work that he’s been putting in because it’s been a unique two and a half months where he got to really dive into his overall just well-being on and off the floor.”

NBA NEWS & SCORES: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans Updates

Morant reflected on his suspension as a learning and growth opportunity, emphasizing the importance of rebounding from mistakes. He expressed his desire to set a positive example for his family and teammates.

“I feel like in this world, a lot of us make mistakes. And I felt like the message they got from mine, regardless if you make a mistake, you have another chance to fix it and reinvent yourself,” Morant said. “I felt like that’s the good that happened during this process. I obviously don’t wish it happened, but it definitely took me, my family, my team, to the next level.”

Morant’s journey, from being the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 draft to facing suspensions, illustrates his resilience and commitment to personal and professional development. He acknowledged the need for better decisions, especially considering the impact of off-court issues on the team’s performance.