The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New Orleans Pelicans, 115-113, at Smoothie King Center on Tuesday.

One of the most anticipated nights of the 2023-24 NBA season happened Tuesday, as Ja Morant was making his season debut for the Grizzlies after missing the first 25 games of the campaign due to a suspension. And as if it was written in a fairy tale, Morant was the star of the game and delivered for Memphis in a way only players of his caliber can do. The Grizzlies endured a rough start despite holding a 25-21 lead in the first quarter, but the Pelicans always looked like the better team. A 39-16 score in the second quarter allowed New Orleans to build a 19-point lead entering halftime, and it seemed the Grizzlies were headed toward another loss. Memphis showed signs of life in the third quarter, but a 36-27 score was not enough to reduce the deficit. However, Memphis stepped its game up late in the fourth, and with Morant leading the way, they completed the comeback. Morant was the hero of the game after draining the game-winning shot at the buzzer. With the win, the Grizzlies moved to 6-8 on the road, while the Pelicans fell to 9-5 at home.

Ja Morant led the way for Memphis with 34 points, eight assists, six rebounds and two steals. Desmond Bane delivered 21 points and five assists. Jaren Jackson Jr. recorded 24 points, six rebounds and three blocks. No other Memphis players scored in double digits. Vince Williams recorded nine points, seven rebounds and three assists. Bismack Biyombo and Santi Aldama each had eight points.

Brandon Ingram posted 34 points for the Pelicans. He also added six assists, four rebounds and two steals. Zion Williamson posted 13 points, four assists and three rebounds. Jonas Valanciunas recorded 22 points and 14 rebounds. CJ McCollum delivered 18 points, six assists and three rebounds. Herbert Jones ended with seven points and two assists.