Morant Dazzles in Grizzlies’ Opener
After finishing last season as an All-Star, All-NBA Second Team member, and the league’s Most Improved Player while leading the Grizzlies to the second seed in the Western Conference, Ja Morant picked up where he left off in this year’s season opener.
In Memphis’ 115-112 overtime win over the Knicks, Morant produced a game-high 34 points on 11-for-24 shooting from the field and 3-for-6 shooting on three-pointers. He also notched nine assists, four rebounds, and a jaw-dropping block.
His entire night was just one long highlight reel. He got to scoring quickly while attacking the basket. Then, he showed off his range while knocking down multiple three-pointers in the second quarter. Right before the half, he dazzled the crowd with fancy moves and great passes leading to assists.
In the second half, Morant continued his impressive play and peppered the basket with shots. He knocked down clutch shots down the stretch to keep the Grizzlies in the driver’s seat. Then, with time expiring, Morant was called for an offensive foul on an extraordinary attempt to call game.
After the Knicks forced overtime, Morant continued to make highlight plays. He soared through the air and swatted a shot leading to an alley-oop. These efforts led to Memphis coming away with a win in its opening game.
What was most impressive about this performance was the situation that surrounded it. The Grizzlies were short-handed in the opener, with Jaren Jackson Jr., Dillon Brooks, and Ziaire Williams all missing the game. Desmond Bane and Steven Adams also exited during the contest due to injuries.
However, even with three starters out and two other impactful players falling during the match, the Grizzlies barely missed a beat due to Morant’s stellar play. If he can continue to play at this level throughout the year, he will be a serious contender for MVP.
Helping Morant throughout the game were Santi Aldama, Bane, and Tyus Jones. In Aldama’s first NBA start, he recorded a double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. He also finished with an astonishing plus-18 +/-. Despite leaving for a period of the game with an injury, Bane also had a solid night. He finished with 16 points and six assists, although he struggled with efficiency. Lastly, Jones played a consistent game as a backup guard. He recorded 15 points, four rebounds, and three assists.
Just like last year, the Grizzlies are a young team loaded with talent and depth. With 2022’s playoff run under their belt, Memphis has a chance to make a massive splash this season due to their experience.