Ja Morant made an immediate impact in his return to the Memphis Grizzlies lineup Sunday, posting 24 points and 13 assists in a 126-109 win over the Orlando Magic in London. Morant had missed six games with a right calf injury but delivered a dominant performance despite playing on a minutes restriction.
Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo said the team was cautious but optimistic about Morant’s return. “We’ve discussed this several times this season. When you miss a bunch of games, it’s not so easy to jump right back into big minutes,” Iisalo said.
The two-time All-Star also addressed recent trade speculation, emphasizing his commitment to Memphis. “I’ve got a logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be,” Morant said, referencing his team-logo tattoo. “If anybody knows me, I’m a very loyal guy.”
Morant’s presence energized a Grizzlies team that had won just three of its last ten games. Memphis built a 33-point lead in the first half and held on, avoiding the collapse that had cost them in the first game of the European doubleheader in Berlin, which the Magic won 118-111. “That’s just credit to coach putting us in the best spots and then me making the right play, whether it’s passing or scoring,” Morant said.
For Morant, playing in London was also a chance to connect with fans abroad. “Just being able to play basketball — it’s very therapeutic for me,” he said. “I know what I’m capable of out there on the court, and I was able to show that tonight. Walking off and representing Memphis is what it’s all about.”
Morant’s return comes in the third year of his five-year, $197.2 million contract. He is averaging 19 points and 7.6 assists per game this season, and 22.4 points and 7.4 assists for his career. His previous appearance was on Dec. 2 in a 128-121 loss to the Lakers.
With Morant back, the Grizzlies look to regain momentum as they continue their European stint and prepare for the rest of the NBA season.
