Ja Morant hits game-winning buzzer-beater on return from 25-game suspension

 

Image: CNN

In a stunning return from suspension, Ja Morant delivered a game-winning buzzer-beater, propelling the Memphis Grizzlies to a thrilling 115-113 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.

Morant, the star point guard for the Grizzlies, had been absent throughout the season due to an NBA-imposed suspension for "conduct detrimental to the league." This suspension stemmed from an incident where Morant seemingly displayed a firearm on Instagram Live, resulting in an initial eight-game suspension and a subsequent 25-game penalty without pay for a similar occurrence.

The Grizzlies, significantly impacted by Morant's absence, struggled to a 7-19 record, placing them 13th in the competitive Western Conference. However, Morant's triumphant return marked a turning point for the team.

After the game, Morant expressed his resilience, stating, "I'm a dog. I've been putting work in. I haven't played a game in eight months, had a lot of time learning about myself, a lot of hard days where I went through it, but basketball is my life and what I love. It's therapeutic for me, and I'm just excited to be back."

LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, encouraged Morant before the game, posting on social media, "Go be GREAT again!!" Morant, known for his electrifying style, lived up to the hype by sinking a game-winning shot after a mesmerizing spin into the lane, showcasing his skills with a joint game-high 34 points, six rebounds, eight assists, and two steals.

Morant credited his teammates as "brothers" who supported him during his suspension. He acknowledged their collective effort, emphasizing the time spent together in practices, treatments, and flights, highlighting the bond that helped him endure the challenging period.

The Grizzlies, now buoyed by Morant's return, anticipate an improved performance as they aim to climb the Western Conference standings. Morant received solid support from Jaren Jackson Jr. (24 points, six rebounds) and Desmond Bane (21 points, four assists).

Despite a strong performance from Brandon Ingram (34 points, six assists, four rebounds), the Pelicans couldn't halt the Grizzlies' momentum, ending their four-game winning streak.

Looking ahead, the Grizzlies face the Indiana Pacers in Memphis on Thursday, while the Pelicans travel to Ohio to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers on the same night.

Source: cnn.com

#Ja Morant
#game-winning buzzer-beater
#25-game suspension
#Memphis Grizzlies

#New Orleans Pelicans

#115-113