A storybook finish was in the making when the Memphis Grizzlies hosted the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night.
The electric FedExForum was magnified with the return of Ja Morant after serving an eight-game suspension. Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said he wanted to keep Morant in the low 20s of minutes. His math worked out perfectly when Morant entered the game with 4:20 left in the fourth quarter after playing 19 minutes.
Morant entered the game with a lineup that included Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, Luke Kennard and Santi Aldama, and the Rockets’ defense had no answers. The Grizzlies pulled away in the final minute to secure a 130-125 victory against the Rockets.
The Grizzlies (45-27) have won four consecutive games and seven of their last eight. Jackson led the Grizzlies with a season-high 37 points. Morant scored 17 points in his return.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant made his return Wednesday night.
Where does Ja Morant go from here?: The choice is up to him.
Houston (18-55) was led by Kenyon Martin Jr.’s 31 points. Alperen Sengun finished with 25 points and eight rebounds before fouling out.
Ja Morant returns
Morant checked into the game with 3:05 left in the first quarter, and was greeted with a standing ovation and cheers throughout the FedExForum. The two-time All-Star didn’t take long to get involved. His biggest highlight came on the first possession of the second quarter when he threw down a two-handed dunk over Kenyon Martin Jr.
Morant came off the bench for the first time in his NBA career. He looked comfortable in the temporary role. Before the game, Jenkins said the Grizzlies would reevaluate if Morant will come off the bench for the next game.
“Obviously, I’m thankful and grateful for everybody who has been supporting me during this time,” Morant said of the reception. “It definitely helped me a lot. Definitely made me feel a little better. Eased everything that’s been going on. Felt good to be back. Super excited and glad we were able to get the win.”
Jaren Jackson Jr. still looks as dominant as ever
Jackson is turning into a player that opposing teams may fear. In the past,…
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