Zion Williamson on Ja Morant: 'He was able to do whatever he wanted… We didn't get any stops'
“He was able to do whatever he wanted… We didn’t get any stops. They scored almost every possession,” was the tough pill that Zion Williamson had to swallow after the Pelicans’ lead slowly crumbled.
Source: Jay Postrado @ Clutch Points
Source: Jay Postrado @ Clutch Points
What’s the buzz on Twitter?
Vincent Goodwill @VinceGoodwill
New for @YahooSports: The game missed Ja Morant and the feeling seemed mutual — but the game doesn’t need him. The game would just be better off with him in it, being the colorful character he is.
sports.yahoo.com/ja-morants-ret… – 1:38 AM
New for @YahooSports: The game missed Ja Morant and the feeling seemed mutual — but the game doesn’t need him. The game would just be better off with him in it, being the colorful character he is.
sports.yahoo.com/ja-morants-ret… – 1:38 AM
Chris Palmer @ChrisPalmerNBA
Two things that will happen:
1. The Grizzlies will make the playoffs.
2. Ja Morant will make the All-Star Game. – 1:00 AM
Two things that will happen:
1. The Grizzlies will make the playoffs.
2. Ja Morant will make the All-Star Game. – 1:00 AM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Watch Ja Morant score 34 in return from suspension, cap it off with game-winner to beat Pelicans
nbcsports.com/nba/news/watch… – 12:48 AM
Watch Ja Morant score 34 in return from suspension, cap it off with game-winner to beat Pelicans
nbcsports.com/nba/news/watch… – 12:48 AM
Mike Prada @MikePradaNBA
Watched the whole Pels-Grizz game. Did Pels really use JV and Cody Zeller in the 4th instead of Trey + Zion at the 5? You’re telling me Trey or Ingram couldn’t have handled Xavier Tillman? Would’ve let you switch and shrink easier on Ja, and the spacing benefits on O are obvious – 11:49 PM
Watched the whole Pels-Grizz game. Did Pels really use JV and Cody Zeller in the 4th instead of Trey + Zion at the 5? You’re telling me Trey or Ingram couldn’t have handled Xavier Tillman? Would’ve let you switch and shrink easier on Ja, and the spacing benefits on O are obvious – 11:49 PM
CBS NBA @CBSSportsNBA
I’m rooting for Ja Morant, the man, as much as Ja Morant, the NBA superstar
By: @sportsreiter
cbssports.com/nba/news/im-ro… – 11:35 PM
I’m rooting for Ja Morant, the man, as much as Ja Morant, the NBA superstar
By: @sportsreiter
cbssports.com/nba/news/im-ro… – 11:35 PM
Ryan Ward @RyanWardLA
Guess it didn’t take long for Ja Morant to shake off the dust… Daaaamn! Lol – 11:35 PM
Guess it didn’t take long for Ja Morant to shake off the dust… Daaaamn! Lol – 11:35 PM
Chris Palmer @ChrisPalmerNBA
So good to see Ja Morant back. Never should have been gone that long in the first place. The league is better with him on the floor. This kid is 1 of 1. – 11:33 PM
So good to see Ja Morant back. Never should have been gone that long in the first place. The league is better with him on the floor. This kid is 1 of 1. – 11:33 PM
Kelly Iko @KellyIko
Ja Morant on his relationship with God, the emotions surrounding his return to the floor and the relationship with his father, Tee Morant. pic.twitter.com/f8C77q1Pzk – 10:59 PM
Ja Morant on his relationship with God, the emotions surrounding his return to the floor and the relationship with his father, Tee Morant. pic.twitter.com/f8C77q1Pzk – 10:59 PM
Jake Madison @NOLAJake
Going LIVE to breakdown what happened to the Pelicans on the Ja Morant game winner.
Come hangout and vent in the comments. Like in 10 minutes!
youtube.com/watch?v=6tzqTi… pic.twitter.com/VUZHBpooQ2 – 10:57 PM
Going LIVE to breakdown what happened to the Pelicans on the Ja Morant game winner.
Come hangout and vent in the comments. Like in 10 minutes!
youtube.com/watch?v=6tzqTi… pic.twitter.com/VUZHBpooQ2 – 10:57 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant on the early boos from the Pelicans fans:
“You see where that got them.” – 10:54 PM
Ja Morant on the early boos from the Pelicans fans:
“You see where that got them.” – 10:54 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant came up to Desmond Bane in the huddle and asked if he wanted to run a post play for Jaren.
Bane: “I was like no.”
Bane said he wanted the ball in Ja’s hands. – 10:51 PM
Ja Morant came up to Desmond Bane in the huddle and asked if he wanted to run a post play for Jaren.
Bane: “I was like no.”
Bane said he wanted the ball in Ja’s hands. – 10:51 PM
Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
CJ McCollum and Zion both noted team’s inability to get any defensive stops in 4Q as main reason #Pelicans couldn’t close out Grizzlies. McCollum said team made some specific mistakes, such as running Morant off three-point line. You want Ja taking jumpers, not driving – 10:48 PM
CJ McCollum and Zion both noted team’s inability to get any defensive stops in 4Q as main reason #Pelicans couldn’t close out Grizzlies. McCollum said team made some specific mistakes, such as running Morant off three-point line. You want Ja taking jumpers, not driving – 10:48 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
A quick story: Ja Morant said he wasn’t going for a historic performance on Tuesday.
He did one better.
He made history AND hit the game winner.
dailymemphian.com/section/sports… – 10:35 PM
A quick story: Ja Morant said he wasn’t going for a historic performance on Tuesday.
He did one better.
He made history AND hit the game winner.
dailymemphian.com/section/sports… – 10:35 PM
CBS NBA @CBSSportsNBA
Grizzlies’ Ja Morant drops 34 points and makes game-winner in his return from suspension
cbssports.com/nba/news/grizz… – 10:26 PM
Grizzlies’ Ja Morant drops 34 points and makes game-winner in his return from suspension
cbssports.com/nba/news/grizz… – 10:26 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Willie Green on defending Ja Morant 1-on-1 on the last possession:
“We trust (Herb) for sure … We threw some different looks at him. But (Morant) was fantastic tonight. Give him credit. We blitzed him. We threw multiple guys at him. He still got to where he needed to.” – 10:26 PM
Willie Green on defending Ja Morant 1-on-1 on the last possession:
“We trust (Herb) for sure … We threw some different looks at him. But (Morant) was fantastic tonight. Give him credit. We blitzed him. We threw multiple guys at him. He still got to where he needed to.” – 10:26 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Willie Green: “They got to the free-throw line. Zion shoots four free throws. Jaren Jackson Jr. shoots 15. I feel like Zion attacks the paint just as much as anybody. For him to only get four free throws, that’s something that hurt us.” – 10:25 PM
Willie Green: “They got to the free-throw line. Zion shoots four free throws. Jaren Jackson Jr. shoots 15. I feel like Zion attacks the paint just as much as anybody. For him to only get four free throws, that’s something that hurt us.” – 10:25 PM
Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
Ja Morant delivers big baskets down the stretch, including the game-winner with no time left, lifting Grizzlies to 115-113 road win over #Pelicans, in Morant’s season debut. Memphis overcomes 24-point first-half deficit: neworlns.co/41wsupx pic.twitter.com/pF1hxyrpaw – 10:07 PM
Ja Morant delivers big baskets down the stretch, including the game-winner with no time left, lifting Grizzlies to 115-113 road win over #Pelicans, in Morant’s season debut. Memphis overcomes 24-point first-half deficit: neworlns.co/41wsupx pic.twitter.com/pF1hxyrpaw – 10:07 PM
StatMuse @statmuse
Ja Morant in the last two minutes (down by 2):
— Steal
— Bucket
— Bucket
— Rebound
— Game-winning buzzer-beater
Dawg. statmuse.com/nba/player/ja-… – 10:06 PM
Ja Morant in the last two minutes (down by 2):
— Steal
— Bucket
— Bucket
— Rebound
— Game-winning buzzer-beater
Dawg. statmuse.com/nba/player/ja-… – 10:06 PM
Mike Curtis @MikeACurtis2
Stephanie Ready: “Take me through the play right there.”
Ja Morant: “Call 12.” – 10:05 PM
Stephanie Ready: “Take me through the play right there.”
Ja Morant: “Call 12.” – 10:05 PM
Michael C. Wright @mikecwright
“I kept receipts, too.” – Ja Morant pic.twitter.com/NksfPhsbrp – 10:05 PM
“I kept receipts, too.” – Ja Morant pic.twitter.com/NksfPhsbrp – 10:05 PM
Scott Kushner @ScottDKushner
What a freaking show by Ja Morant.
Nothing but respect for the way he finished that game. Just a superstar doing work.
A lot of Pelicans issues to discuss, but that was incredible. – 10:04 PM
What a freaking show by Ja Morant.
Nothing but respect for the way he finished that game. Just a superstar doing work.
A lot of Pelicans issues to discuss, but that was incredible. – 10:04 PM
Bill Simmons @BillSimmons
That’s a great basketball moment right there. Nice work Ja Morant! – 10:03 PM
That’s a great basketball moment right there. Nice work Ja Morant! – 10:03 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
That’s one hell of a way for Ja Morant to announce his return.
He scored 34 points and hit the final 3 buckets of the night for Memphis, including the game-winner at the buzzer. – 10:03 PM
That’s one hell of a way for Ja Morant to announce his return.
He scored 34 points and hit the final 3 buckets of the night for Memphis, including the game-winner at the buzzer. – 10:03 PM
Gerald Bourguet @GeraldBourguet
Ja Morant game-winner in his first game back? Unreal stuff. Hope he stays on the court, special player – 10:02 PM
Ja Morant game-winner in his first game back? Unreal stuff. Hope he stays on the court, special player – 10:02 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Final: Grizzlies 115, Pelicans 113
New Orleans led by as many as 24.
Ja Morant scores 34 in his return.
Pels fall to 16-12. Winning streak snapped at four. – 10:02 PM
Final: Grizzlies 115, Pelicans 113
New Orleans led by as many as 24.
Ja Morant scores 34 in his return.
Pels fall to 16-12. Winning streak snapped at four. – 10:02 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
Ja Morant hits game-winner at buzzer in 115-113 win at Pelicans and scores 34 points. – 10:01 PM
Ja Morant hits game-winner at buzzer in 115-113 win at Pelicans and scores 34 points. – 10:01 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
This building is shocked. Welcome back, Ja Morant. Don’t close the book on the Grizzlies just yet. – 10:01 PM
This building is shocked. Welcome back, Ja Morant. Don’t close the book on the Grizzlies just yet. – 10:01 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Ja Morant spins into a floater and drains it at the buzzer to give the Grizzlies the win.
He finishes with 34 points and 8 assists in his return from a 25-game suspension. – 10:01 PM
Ja Morant spins into a floater and drains it at the buzzer to give the Grizzlies the win.
He finishes with 34 points and 8 assists in his return from a 25-game suspension. – 10:01 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant for the win. Unbelievable. No words.
This guy is incredible. I can’t wait for Thursday night. – 10:01 PM
Ja Morant for the win. Unbelievable. No words.
This guy is incredible. I can’t wait for Thursday night. – 10:01 PM
StatMuse @statmuse
Ja Morant tonight:
— 34 PTS
— 6 REB
— 8 AST
— 2 STL
— Game-winner
The most points ever scored in a return game after missing 25+ games. statmuse.com/nba/player/ja-… – 10:01 PM
Ja Morant tonight:
— 34 PTS
— 6 REB
— 8 AST
— 2 STL
— Game-winner
The most points ever scored in a return game after missing 25+ games. statmuse.com/nba/player/ja-… – 10:01 PM
Tim MacMahon @espn_macmahon
Ja Morant is indeed back — 34-6-8 and the buzzer-beater in New Orleans. – 10:01 PM
Ja Morant is indeed back — 34-6-8 and the buzzer-beater in New Orleans. – 10:01 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
CJ McCollum is 6-9 from the 3-point line, but his 3 misses might be the ugliest 3 misses of his career, including that last one w/ 13 seconds left.
The Pelicans have to get a stop. And I mean stop Ja Morant from getting into the lane. All tied up at 113 with 9.6 seconds left. – 10:00 PM
CJ McCollum is 6-9 from the 3-point line, but his 3 misses might be the ugliest 3 misses of his career, including that last one w/ 13 seconds left.
The Pelicans have to get a stop. And I mean stop Ja Morant from getting into the lane. All tied up at 113 with 9.6 seconds left. – 10:00 PM
Rosalyn Gold-Onwude @ROSGO21
Big bucket!! And another one! Big 2nd half for Ja Morant in his comeback… 🍿🍿 – 9:58 PM
Big bucket!! And another one! Big 2nd half for Ja Morant in his comeback… 🍿🍿 – 9:58 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant completely taking over and dominating this game. Unbelievable. – 9:58 PM
Ja Morant completely taking over and dominating this game. Unbelievable. – 9:58 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Wow. Memphis has taken the lead after a Ja Morant floater. The Grizzlies were down as many as 24 points. 111-109 with 1:20 left – 9:57 PM
Wow. Memphis has taken the lead after a Ja Morant floater. The Grizzlies were down as many as 24 points. 111-109 with 1:20 left – 9:57 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
Herb Jones unnecessarily flies out at Ja Morant — make him shoot — and then Brandon Ingram turns it over.
Grizzlies within 2, at 102-100 with 5:06 remaining. – 9:45 PM
Herb Jones unnecessarily flies out at Ja Morant — make him shoot — and then Brandon Ingram turns it over.
Grizzlies within 2, at 102-100 with 5:06 remaining. – 9:45 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Timeout New Orleans. Pelicans lead has been trimmed to seven. Memphis lurking around with Ja Morant on the bench. Jaren Jackson Jr. has been dominant to start the fourth – 9:35 PM
Timeout New Orleans. Pelicans lead has been trimmed to seven. Memphis lurking around with Ja Morant on the bench. Jaren Jackson Jr. has been dominant to start the fourth – 9:35 PM
Marc J. Spears @MarcJSpears
Ja Morant has 20 points, seven assists and four rebounds going into the fourth quarter, but the Grizzlies are down 87-77 at Pelicans. – 9:28 PM
Ja Morant has 20 points, seven assists and four rebounds going into the fourth quarter, but the Grizzlies are down 87-77 at Pelicans. – 9:28 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
End of 3: Pelicans 87 Grizzlies 77
NOLA doing just enough to keep Memphis at bay. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zion Williamson will be back with their fouls. Should be a good fourth quarter – 9:27 PM
End of 3: Pelicans 87 Grizzlies 77
NOLA doing just enough to keep Memphis at bay. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zion Williamson will be back with their fouls. Should be a good fourth quarter – 9:27 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
End of 3: Pelicans 87 Grizzlies 77
NOLA doing just enough to keep Memphis at bay. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zion Williamson will be back with their fouls. Should ne a good fourth quarter – 9:27 PM
End of 3: Pelicans 87 Grizzlies 77
NOLA doing just enough to keep Memphis at bay. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zion Williamson will be back with their fouls. Should ne a good fourth quarter – 9:27 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant is rolling. Just went coast to coast against Alvarado and pulled out the too little pose. Morant has 13 points in the third quarter. – 9:24 PM
Ja Morant is rolling. Just went coast to coast against Alvarado and pulled out the too little pose. Morant has 13 points in the third quarter. – 9:24 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Four fouls on Jaren. Ja Morant to the bench. Desmond Bane will need to have his best stretch yet today to keep Memphis in this one – 9:13 PM
Four fouls on Jaren. Ja Morant to the bench. Desmond Bane will need to have his best stretch yet today to keep Memphis in this one – 9:13 PM
Nick DePaula @NickDePaula
Zion Williamson debuts the Jordan Zion 3 M.U.D.
The updated version of the Zion 3 features a support strap, full-length Formula 23 drop-in midsole & upgraded full-length Zoom Air cushioning.
Will launch in March 2024 for $160. pic.twitter.com/esZO8YabQd – 9:12 PM
Zion Williamson debuts the Jordan Zion 3 M.U.D.
The updated version of the Zion 3 features a support strap, full-length Formula 23 drop-in midsole & upgraded full-length Zoom Air cushioning.
Will launch in March 2024 for $160. pic.twitter.com/esZO8YabQd – 9:12 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Pretty sure that was the first ever JV-to-Zion spin-off alley-oop – 9:08 PM
Pretty sure that was the first ever JV-to-Zion spin-off alley-oop – 9:08 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant is doing Ja Morant things. Just converted an and-one from an improbable angle. 13-4 Grizzlies run. Memphis down eight. – 9:07 PM
Ja Morant is doing Ja Morant things. Just converted an and-one from an improbable angle. 13-4 Grizzlies run. Memphis down eight. – 9:07 PM
Ball Don’t Lie @Balldontlie
Ja Morant in his first half back:
🐻16 minutes
🐻 7 points
🐻 3 assists
The Grizzlies trail the Pelicans 60-41. pic.twitter.com/Mlgqty9qq0 – 8:46 PM
Ja Morant in his first half back:
🐻16 minutes
🐻 7 points
🐻 3 assists
The Grizzlies trail the Pelicans 60-41. pic.twitter.com/Mlgqty9qq0 – 8:46 PM
Ball Don’t Lie @Balldontlie
Ja Morant in his first half back:
🐻16 minutes
🐻 7 points
🐻 3 assists
The Grizzlies trail the Pelicans 60-43. pic.twitter.com/lwPhP4VWUD – 8:45 PM
Ja Morant in his first half back:
🐻16 minutes
🐻 7 points
🐻 3 assists
The Grizzlies trail the Pelicans 60-43. pic.twitter.com/lwPhP4VWUD – 8:45 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Brian Anderson** : “I know Grizzlies fans and Ja Morant fans are excited that he’s back. But they’ve got personnel issues.” – 8:44 PM
Brian Anderson** : “I know Grizzlies fans and Ja Morant fans are excited that he’s back. But they’ve got personnel issues.” – 8:44 PM
Ball Don’t Lie @Balldontlie
Ja Morant in his first half back:
🐻16 minutes
🐻 7 points
🐻 3 assists
The Grizzlies trail the Pelicans 60-41. pic.twitter.com/WRxzDRZ53W – 8:43 PM
Ja Morant in his first half back:
🐻16 minutes
🐻 7 points
🐻 3 assists
The Grizzlies trail the Pelicans 60-41. pic.twitter.com/WRxzDRZ53W – 8:43 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Pelicans won the second quarter 39-16. Did most of the damage after Zion went to bench with third foul. CJ McCollum with 15. Brandon Ingram, Jonas Valanciunas with 12 each. – 8:42 PM
Pelicans won the second quarter 39-16. Did most of the damage after Zion went to bench with third foul. CJ McCollum with 15. Brandon Ingram, Jonas Valanciunas with 12 each. – 8:42 PM
Chris Herrington @ChrisHerrington
Vince Williams Jr. with a first-half buzzer-beater from the corner to bring the deficit under 20 for Grizzlies, 60-41. Does that count as keeping in touch? 7 points and 3 assists in 16 minutes in Ja Morant’s first half of hoops this season. – 8:42 PM
Vince Williams Jr. with a first-half buzzer-beater from the corner to bring the deficit under 20 for Grizzlies, 60-41. Does that count as keeping in touch? 7 points and 3 assists in 16 minutes in Ja Morant’s first half of hoops this season. – 8:42 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
End of 1st half: Pelicans 60, Grizzlies 41
McCollum 15 pts (5-6 3PT)
Valanciunas 12 pts, 8 rebs
Ingram 12 pts
Pels outscored the Grizz 39-16 in the 2nd Q, including a massive 28-2 run. Ja Morant had 7 pts in his 1st action of the season, but Pels are rolling on both ends. – 8:41 PM
End of 1st half: Pelicans 60, Grizzlies 41
McCollum 15 pts (5-6 3PT)
Valanciunas 12 pts, 8 rebs
Ingram 12 pts
Pels outscored the Grizz 39-16 in the 2nd Q, including a massive 28-2 run. Ja Morant had 7 pts in his 1st action of the season, but Pels are rolling on both ends. – 8:41 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ian Eagle: “I know Grizzlies fans and Ja Morant fans are excited that he’s back. But they’ve got personnel issues.” – 8:41 PM
Ian Eagle: “I know Grizzlies fans and Ja Morant fans are excited that he’s back. But they’ve got personnel issues.” – 8:41 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant scorers to end a 28-2 Pelicans run. Memphis went from leading 29-25 to trailing 53-31 during that stretch – 8:33 PM
Ja Morant scorers to end a 28-2 Pelicans run. Memphis went from leading 29-25 to trailing 53-31 during that stretch – 8:33 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
CJ McCollum buries a step-back in Ja Morant’s face and then the Pelicans force another turnover, with Brandon Ingram going to the free throw line.
After 2 makes, the Pelicans have seized a 53-31 lead and it feels like eons ago that the Grizzlies put points on the board. – 8:32 PM
CJ McCollum buries a step-back in Ja Morant’s face and then the Pelicans force another turnover, with Brandon Ingram going to the free throw line.
After 2 makes, the Pelicans have seized a 53-31 lead and it feels like eons ago that the Grizzlies put points on the board. – 8:32 PM
Chris Vernon @ChrisVernonShow
woulda been way better for grizzlies for pelicans to win that challenge earlier and have zion stay in game. – 8:29 PM
woulda been way better for grizzlies for pelicans to win that challenge earlier and have zion stay in game. – 8:29 PM
Bobby Manning @RealBobManning
Clear from this game that the challenges will continue for Memphis even with Morant back, and NOLA needs Zion to be so much better. – 8:26 PM
Clear from this game that the challenges will continue for Memphis even with Morant back, and NOLA needs Zion to be so much better. – 8:26 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
CJ McCollum hits another 3-pointer and the Pelicans are on a 15-2 run, seizing a 40-31 lead over the Grizzlies.
Dyson Daniels deserves his flowers. He completely shut down Ja Morant for a few minutes, forcing a tough miss and two turnovers. – 8:23 PM
CJ McCollum hits another 3-pointer and the Pelicans are on a 15-2 run, seizing a 40-31 lead over the Grizzlies.
Dyson Daniels deserves his flowers. He completely shut down Ja Morant for a few minutes, forcing a tough miss and two turnovers. – 8:23 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
The call is upheld. Three fouls on Zion Williamson with 7:43 left in the second quarter – 8:18 PM
The call is upheld. Three fouls on Zion Williamson with 7:43 left in the second quarter – 8:18 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Zion Williamson called for a charge while attempting post up Jaren Jackson Jr. It’s his third foul. The Pelicans are challenging – 8:17 PM
Zion Williamson called for a charge while attempting post up Jaren Jackson Jr. It’s his third foul. The Pelicans are challenging – 8:17 PM
Jake Madison @NOLAJake
I don’t think that offensive foul will be overturned but that’s a good challenge by Willie Green on the small chance it keeps Zion with 2 fouls v. 3 – 8:16 PM
I don’t think that offensive foul will be overturned but that’s a good challenge by Willie Green on the small chance it keeps Zion with 2 fouls v. 3 – 8:16 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Zion looks extremely upset as he walks to the bench after picking up his 3rd foul on a really late offensive foul call.
Pels are challenging it. – 8:15 PM
Zion looks extremely upset as he walks to the bench after picking up his 3rd foul on a really late offensive foul call.
Pels are challenging it. – 8:15 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
Willie Green is livid on the sidelines after that delayed charging call on Zion Williamson.
He’s asked for a timeout, and thus, a challenge. – 8:15 PM
Willie Green is livid on the sidelines after that delayed charging call on Zion Williamson.
He’s asked for a timeout, and thus, a challenge. – 8:15 PM
Peter Vecsey @PeterVecsey1
Sight I thought we’d never witness: Morant & Williamson in the same game… – 8:14 PM
Sight I thought we’d never witness: Morant & Williamson in the same game… – 8:14 PM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant has been really close on some of these highlight layups. Still knocking the rust off a little bit. – 8:14 PM
Ja Morant has been really close on some of these highlight layups. Still knocking the rust off a little bit. – 8:14 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
Love the Dyson Daniels substitution. No one has been able to stay in front of Ja Morant. – 8:12 PM
Love the Dyson Daniels substitution. No one has been able to stay in front of Ja Morant. – 8:12 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
End of 1st: Grizzlies 25, Pelicans 21
Valanciunas 7 pts (3-4 FG)
Murphy 5 pts, 3 rebs
Ingram 4 pts (1-7 FG)
Pels shot 7-26 from the field in the 1st. Zion only played two minutes after picking up two quick fouls. – 8:05 PM
End of 1st: Grizzlies 25, Pelicans 21
Valanciunas 7 pts (3-4 FG)
Murphy 5 pts, 3 rebs
Ingram 4 pts (1-7 FG)
Pels shot 7-26 from the field in the 1st. Zion only played two minutes after picking up two quick fouls. – 8:05 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant lob to Ziaire Williams. Things are starting to look very reminiscent. – 8:02 PM
Ja Morant lob to Ziaire Williams. Things are starting to look very reminiscent. – 8:02 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant back on the table, waiting to check in at the next workout. Bane will probably get a break. Taylor Jenkins staggering his star players so far. – 7:59 PM
Jaren Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant back on the table, waiting to check in at the next workout. Bane will probably get a break. Taylor Jenkins staggering his star players so far. – 7:59 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Zion Williamson takes a seat with 10:08 left in the 1st after picking up two fouls – 7:39 PM
Zion Williamson takes a seat with 10:08 left in the 1st after picking up two fouls – 7:39 PM
Vincent Goodwill @VinceGoodwill
Ja Morant, booed pretty heavily here in NOLA, coming out super aggressive – 7:38 PM
Ja Morant, booed pretty heavily here in NOLA, coming out super aggressive – 7:38 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Loud boos on Ja Morant’s first touch on offense. Nola isn’t as happy to see Ja Morant as you. – 7:36 PM
Loud boos on Ja Morant’s first touch on offense. Nola isn’t as happy to see Ja Morant as you. – 7:36 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
I know people felt some way about it, but the road return kind of fits the mold. Everything Ja Morant has shown has been all business up to this point. Not much flash. There are Grizz fans here, but obviously less outside noise on the road. Fitting for the debut – 7:34 PM
I know people felt some way about it, but the road return kind of fits the mold. Everything Ja Morant has shown has been all business up to this point. Not much flash. There are Grizz fans here, but obviously less outside noise on the road. Fitting for the debut – 7:34 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Good mix of loud cheers and boos when Ja Morant was announced here in New Orleans. It was loud. – 7:31 PM
Good mix of loud cheers and boos when Ja Morant was announced here in New Orleans. It was loud. – 7:31 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
DEFINITELY more boos than cheers for Ja Morant during pre-game introductions. – 7:31 PM
DEFINITELY more boos than cheers for Ja Morant during pre-game introductions. – 7:31 PM
Ball Don’t Lie @Balldontlie
Ja Morant GOT UP in warm ups 👀
(via @memgrizz)
pic.twitter.com/vJUx0XdEOd – 7:29 PM
Ja Morant GOT UP in warm ups 👀
(via @memgrizz)
pic.twitter.com/vJUx0XdEOd – 7:29 PM
Nick DePaula @NickDePaula
12 is back.
Ja Morant returns in a white & gold Nike Ja 1. pic.twitter.com/Duc5uR7F3W – 7:20 PM
12 is back.
Ja Morant returns in a white & gold Nike Ja 1. pic.twitter.com/Duc5uR7F3W – 7:20 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Grizzlies starters:
PG – Ja Morant
SG – Desmond Bane
SF – Vince Williams Jr.
PF – Jaren Jackson Jr.
C – Bismack Biyombo – 7:09 PM
Grizzlies starters:
PG – Ja Morant
SG – Desmond Bane
SF – Vince Williams Jr.
PF – Jaren Jackson Jr.
C – Bismack Biyombo – 7:09 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Pelicans starters:
CJ McCollum
Herb Jones
Brandon Ingram
Zion Williamson
Jonas Valanciunas – 7:07 PM
Pelicans starters:
CJ McCollum
Herb Jones
Brandon Ingram
Zion Williamson
Jonas Valanciunas – 7:07 PM
Andrew Lopez @_Andrew_Lopez
Pelicans say Zion Williamson is available for tonight’s game.
Naji Marshall available as well. – 6:45 PM
Pelicans say Zion Williamson is available for tonight’s game.
Naji Marshall available as well. – 6:45 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Zion Williamson and Naji Marshall will be available for tonight’s game vs Memphis, per the Pelicans – 6:45 PM
Zion Williamson and Naji Marshall will be available for tonight’s game vs Memphis, per the Pelicans – 6:45 PM
Damichael Cole @DamichaelC
Ja Morant is here in a new Ja 1 PE colorway pic.twitter.com/787jjw0a9k – 6:42 PM
Ja Morant is here in a new Ja 1 PE colorway pic.twitter.com/787jjw0a9k – 6:42 PM
Pete Pranica @PetePranica
Ja Morant getting ready for the action…. @memgrizz pic.twitter.com/mFn6LYKTtn – 6:40 PM
Ja Morant getting ready for the action…. @memgrizz pic.twitter.com/mFn6LYKTtn – 6:40 PM
Chris Herrington @ChrisHerrington
Tee Morant and Davonte Pack both courtside as Ja Morant comes out for his first pregame warmup of the season. pic.twitter.com/aUisucnzWZ – 6:39 PM
Tee Morant and Davonte Pack both courtside as Ja Morant comes out for his first pregame warmup of the season. pic.twitter.com/aUisucnzWZ – 6:39 PM
CBS NBA @CBSSportsNBA
NBA picks: Best plus-money player props for Ja Morant, Khris Middleton on Tuesday night
cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-p… – 6:23 PM
NBA picks: Best plus-money player props for Ja Morant, Khris Middleton on Tuesday night
cbssports.com/nba/news/nba-p… – 6:23 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Zion Williamson is out on the court beginning his pregame warmup pic.twitter.com/3uiqAHEMIh – 6:20 PM
Zion Williamson is out on the court beginning his pregame warmup pic.twitter.com/3uiqAHEMIh – 6:20 PM
Chris Herrington @ChrisHerrington
Unlike when he came back from suspension last time, Ja Morant will go right back into the starting lineup tonight, but Taylor Jenkins suggested the length of his stints could be limited in his first game back. – 6:11 PM
Unlike when he came back from suspension last time, Ja Morant will go right back into the starting lineup tonight, but Taylor Jenkins suggested the length of his stints could be limited in his first game back. – 6:11 PM
Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
Taylor Jenkins said Ja Morant “is not going to play crazy minutes” tonight vs. #Pelicans and the coach will be mindful of how he’s used. Morant hasn’t played in a game since April – 6:03 PM
Taylor Jenkins said Ja Morant “is not going to play crazy minutes” tonight vs. #Pelicans and the coach will be mindful of how he’s used. Morant hasn’t played in a game since April – 6:03 PM
Vincent Goodwill @VinceGoodwill
Ja Morant will start tonight for Memphis against New Orleans. Zion Williamson’s status (illness) is still up in the air – 6:02 PM
Ja Morant will start tonight for Memphis against New Orleans. Zion Williamson’s status (illness) is still up in the air – 6:02 PM
Michael C. Wright @mikecwright
Ja Morant is starting but Taylor Jenkins said he won’t be playing “crazy minutes.” Smartly, they’ll ramp him up it seems. – 6:02 PM
Ja Morant is starting but Taylor Jenkins said he won’t be playing “crazy minutes.” Smartly, they’ll ramp him up it seems. – 6:02 PM
Tim MacMahon @espn_macmahon
Ja Morant will be in Grizzlies’ starting lineup tonight. Coach Taylor Jenkins’ message to him: “Go out there and have fun.” – 6:02 PM
Ja Morant will be in Grizzlies’ starting lineup tonight. Coach Taylor Jenkins’ message to him: “Go out there and have fun.” – 6:02 PM
Oleh Kosel @OlehKosel
Zion Williamson (non-Covid illness) told the Pelicans coaching staff he wasn’t feeling well today when arriving at SKC.
His status will be updated closer to game time. – 5:46 PM
Zion Williamson (non-Covid illness) told the Pelicans coaching staff he wasn’t feeling well today when arriving at SKC.
His status will be updated closer to game time. – 5:46 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Still no update on Zion Williamson’s status from Willie Green.
He says he’ll know more in about an hour. – 5:46 PM
Still no update on Zion Williamson’s status from Willie Green.
He says he’ll know more in about an hour. – 5:46 PM
Christian Clark @cclark_13
Zion Williamson said this morning he wasn’t feeling well. Willie Green says team will have an update in an hour. – 5:46 PM
Zion Williamson said this morning he wasn’t feeling well. Willie Green says team will have an update in an hour. – 5:46 PM
Malika Andrews @malika_andrews
What are the Grizzlies’ plans for Ja Morant in his first game back tonight? @espn_macmahon joins NBA Today: pic.twitter.com/WAvkZeDykt – 5:33 PM
What are the Grizzlies’ plans for Ja Morant in his first game back tonight? @espn_macmahon joins NBA Today: pic.twitter.com/WAvkZeDykt – 5:33 PM
Sirius XM NBA @SiriusXMNBA
What is the better bet tonight?
🏀Pelicans win, Zion over 23.5pts (+195)
🏀Grizzlies win, Morant over 22.5pts (+350)
Listen to @wha1en and @BaruthaAlex tonight at 7pm ET on the @RotoWireNBA show as they break down tonight’s best games!
Listen LIVE: siriusxm.us/NBARadioLive pic.twitter.com/RBmrJ625PK – 5:30 PM
What is the better bet tonight?
🏀Pelicans win, Zion over 23.5pts (+195)
🏀Grizzlies win, Morant over 22.5pts (+350)
Listen to @wha1en and @BaruthaAlex tonight at 7pm ET on the @RotoWireNBA show as they break down tonight’s best games!
Listen LIVE: siriusxm.us/NBARadioLive pic.twitter.com/RBmrJ625PK – 5:30 PM
StatMuse @statmuse
In six head-to-head matchups:
Zion — Ja —
23.5 PPG 21.0 PPG
6.3 RPG 7.8 APG
56.4 FG% 49.5 FG%
4 Wins 2 Wins
Who you got tonight? pic.twitter.com/GUuKU7lj6r – 3:04 PM
In six head-to-head matchups:
Zion — Ja —
23.5 PPG 21.0 PPG
6.3 RPG 7.8 APG
56.4 FG% 49.5 FG%
4 Wins 2 Wins
Who you got tonight? pic.twitter.com/GUuKU7lj6r – 3:04 PM
Sirius XM NBA @SiriusXMNBA
Ja Morant will make his long-awaited return for the Memphis Grizzlies tonight!
@adaniels33 tells @RickKamlaSports his expectations for the superstar point guard.
Hear Grizzlies-Pelicans on NBA Radio right here – Sxm.app.link/nbaradiolive pic.twitter.com/ChKHy48nSd – 3:00 PM
Ja Morant will make his long-awaited return for the Memphis Grizzlies tonight!
@adaniels33 tells @RickKamlaSports his expectations for the superstar point guard.
Hear Grizzlies-Pelicans on NBA Radio right here – Sxm.app.link/nbaradiolive pic.twitter.com/ChKHy48nSd – 3:00 PM
CBS NBA @CBSSportsNBA
Ja Morant’s return: Why have the Grizzlies been so bad without him, and can they still make the playoffs?
cbssports.com/nba/news/ja-mo… – 1:58 PM
Ja Morant’s return: Why have the Grizzlies been so bad without him, and can they still make the playoffs?
cbssports.com/nba/news/ja-mo… – 1:58 PM
Adam Mares @Adam_Mares
Legs is back!! And we’ve got a great show lined up. Come join!!
The Wolves are for real
How the Clippers found their groove
Ja Morant returns
📺 youtube.com/live/HCm-k-CxZ… – 1:29 PM
Legs is back!! And we’ve got a great show lined up. Come join!!
The Wolves are for real How the Clippers found their groove Ja Morant returns📺 youtube.com/live/HCm-k-CxZ… – 1:29 PM
Baxter Holmes @Baxter
NEW: ‘A quagmire situation’: What Ja Morant’s return means for a teetering Memphis Grizzlies season w/ @espn_macmahon espn.com/nba/story/_/id… – 12:56 PM
NEW: ‘A quagmire situation’: What Ja Morant’s return means for a teetering Memphis Grizzlies season w/ @espn_macmahon espn.com/nba/story/_/id… – 12:56 PM
Jim Eichenhofer @Jim_Eichenhofer
#Pelicans shootaround update for Tuesday’s 6:30 p.m. home game vs. Grizzlies (Zion Williamson, Naji Marshall injury statuses changed this morning; Memphis scouting report; lineups, notes, expanded @FDSportsbook keys): neworlns.co/3Rv8Tl5 pic.twitter.com/2aprIIcs36 – 12:48 PM
#Pelicans shootaround update for Tuesday’s 6:30 p.m. home game vs. Grizzlies (Zion Williamson, Naji Marshall injury statuses changed this morning; Memphis scouting report; lineups, notes, expanded @FDSportsbook keys): neworlns.co/3Rv8Tl5 pic.twitter.com/2aprIIcs36 – 12:48 PM
Kurt Helin @basketballtalk
Ja Morant is set to return from suspension Tuesday night, can the Grizzlies’ season be salvaged?
nbcsports.com/nba/news/ja-mo… – 12:29 PM
Ja Morant is set to return from suspension Tuesday night, can the Grizzlies’ season be salvaged?
nbcsports.com/nba/news/ja-mo… – 12:29 PM
Will Guillory @WillGuillory
Zion Williamson (non-COVID illness) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game vs Memphis – 12:22 PM
Zion Williamson (non-COVID illness) is listed as questionable for tonight’s game vs Memphis – 12:22 PM
Mark Haynes @markhaynesnba
Zion Williamson (non-COVID illness) is QUESTIONABLE for tonight’s game vs. Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies, per team. – 12:07 PM
Zion Williamson (non-COVID illness) is QUESTIONABLE for tonight’s game vs. Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies, per team. – 12:07 PM
Mark Medina @MarkG_Medina
With Ja Morant returning from a 25-game suspension, has the Grizzlies’ star learned his lesson? My dispatch for @Sportsnaut bit.ly/41x9xmo – 11:28 AM
With Ja Morant returning from a 25-game suspension, has the Grizzlies’ star learned his lesson? My dispatch for @Sportsnaut bit.ly/41x9xmo – 11:28 AM
Ball Don’t Lie @Balldontlie
Ja Morant makes his season debut tonight.
Will he and the Grizzlies get back on track vs. New Orleans? pic.twitter.com/fHLkdWuhS8 – 10:00 AM
Ja Morant makes his season debut tonight.
Will he and the Grizzlies get back on track vs. New Orleans? pic.twitter.com/fHLkdWuhS8 – 10:00 AM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant is back today. Big game on TNT.
Unfortunately, I got sick over the weekend and this thing has really kicked my ass.
To say I’m bummed I can’t be there tonight is an understatement. 😓 – 8:28 AM
Ja Morant is back today. Big game on TNT.
Unfortunately, I got sick over the weekend and this thing has really kicked my ass.
To say I’m bummed I can’t be there tonight is an understatement. 😓 – 8:28 AM
Drew Hill @DrewHill_DM
Ja Morant is back today. Big game in TNT.
Unfortunately, I got sick over the weekend and this thing has really kicked my ass.
To say I’m bummed I can’t be there tonight is an understatement. 😓 – 8:26 AM
Ja Morant is back today. Big game in TNT.
Unfortunately, I got sick over the weekend and this thing has really kicked my ass.
To say I’m bummed I can’t be there tonight is an understatement. 😓 – 8:26 AM
Mark Giannotto @mgiannotto
COLUMN: Ja Morant is back. Memphis basketball hosts UVA (and might be as good as it has been since Calipari left). Liberty Stadium deal should be approved. Savor this day, Memphis sports fans.
commercialappeal.com/story/sports/c… via @memphisnews – 8:08 AM
COLUMN: Ja Morant is back. Memphis basketball hosts UVA (and might be as good as it has been since Calipari left). Liberty Stadium deal should be approved. Savor this day, Memphis sports fans.
commercialappeal.com/story/sports/c… via @memphisnews – 8:08 AM
Chris Vernon @ChrisVernonShow
JA MORANT returns tonight. Quick reminder for those that forgot (cc: @KevinOConnorNBA)… pic.twitter.com/QwQflQ3Pbu – 8:05 AM
JA MORANT returns tonight. Quick reminder for those that forgot (cc: @KevinOConnorNBA)… pic.twitter.com/QwQflQ3Pbu – 8:05 AM
Sirius XM NBA @SiriusXMNBA
The Starting Lineup with @TheFrankIsola & Ryan McDonough is on the air!
🏀 James Harden’s Big Night
🏀 Knicks-Lakers Reaction
🏀 Ja Morant Returns Tonight
📻 Listen Live: siriusxm.us/NBARadioLive
📱 Call the Show: 855-NBA-JUMP (855-622-5867) pic.twitter.com/vYz7yQcm8h – 7:02 AM
The Starting Lineup with @TheFrankIsola & Ryan McDonough is on the air!
🏀 James Harden’s Big Night
🏀 Knicks-Lakers Reaction
🏀 Ja Morant Returns Tonight
📻 Listen Live: siriusxm.us/NBARadioLive
📱 Call the Show: 855-NBA-JUMP (855-622-5867) pic.twitter.com/vYz7yQcm8h – 7:02 AM
More on this storyline
Christian Clark: Zion Williamson will play tonight, Pelicans say. Seventh Zion-Ja matchup since they came into the league on deck. Naji Marshall available too. -via Twitter @cclark_13 / December 19, 2023
Clutch Points: Ja Morant and Zion Williamson will be facing off for the 7th time in their careers. Zion is 4-2 vs. Ja in the head-to-head matchups 👀 pic.twitter.com/VvM3CwgZyL -via Twitter @ClutchPointsApp / December 19, 2023
Erin Summers: Zion Williamson (non-COVID illness) has been added to the injury report as questionable for tonight’s game vs. Memphis #Pelicans -via Twitter / December 19, 2023
With 9.6 seconds remaining in his delayed season debut, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant fought fatigue after carrying his team back from a 24-point deficit to tie the score against the New Orleans Pelicans. As he used a massage gun on his calves, which he said he felt starting to cramp during the timeout, Morant suggested a playcall: a post-up for power forward Jaren Jackson Jr. Grizzlies shooting guard Desmond Bane, sensing the moment and having seen Morant take over down the stretch, immediately rejected that plan. “He told me, ‘F— no, you get the ball,'” Morant said after the Grizzlies’ 115-113 win Tuesday night. “So at that point, I pretty much just had to lock in and go deliver. And I did.” -via ESPN / December 20, 2023
“I feel like it was the perfect ending, perfect day,” Morant said. “That was crazy,” said Jackson, who had 24 points in the win. “I’m glad I was a part of it. I’m glad I was in the game to witness it.” -via ESPN / December 20, 2023
“Obviously I’ve been working hard, but it’s nothing like NBA basketball, so that’s pretty much just doing the inhaler to try to get more oxygen in the body to be able to go out there and deliver,” Morant said. “When I got back in at that eight-minute mark, they pretty much told me, ‘You’re not coming out.’ I just had to lock in and just push through. [That is] pretty much my life — just continuing to push no matter what.” -via ESPN / December 20, 2023