Ja Morant officially returned to the Memphis Grizzlies squad as a guest at the New Orleans Pelicans after serving a 25-match suspension for behavior damaging to the NBA’s image.

Ja Morant has gone up to 8 months without playing for the Memphis Grizzlies if the seasons 2022/23 and 2023/24 are counted. Despite this, he made a huge impression in the rematch, scoring 34 points, 6 rebounds, 8 assists, and the game-winning free throw to lead the home team to a 115-113 triumph.

In the article below, please join The Sporting News in analyzing Ja Morant’s return date.

Analyzing Ja Morant’s comeback performance

Before the game, Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins stated that he will not limit Ja Morant’s minutes. Despite his suspension, the 1999-born youngster continued to practice with his teammates and was in good health.

However, Ja Morant will not be able to rekindle his competitive spirit overnight. Ja Morant only had 7 points and 3 assists in the first half, while the Memphis Grizzlies led by 19 points after the first two halves.

Many people projected that the Memphis Grizzlies will suffer their 20th loss of the season at the moment. Ja Morant’s explosive performance in the second half of the game, on the other hand, demonstrated the opposite.

Ja Morant scored 13 points and had four assists in the third quarter, helping the Memphis Grizzlies steadily reduce the gap on the home team. In the fourth quarter, Ja Morant continued to be a leader in elevating the team’s spirits, assisting the Memphis Grizzlies to a 113-113 tie. CJ McCollum missed a 3-point attempt, Ja Morant got a rebound, and the Memphis Grizzlies called timeout with 9.1 seconds remaining.

Ja Morant was given the final ball by coach Taylor Jenkins. After receiving the ball from a teammate, the 1999-born defender adjusted the time, made a break into the basket, and had a 2-point shot before the game clock expired. The Memphis Grizzlies won 115-113, and Ja Morant was named “Best Player of the Match.”