Memphis Grizzlies Win NBA Season Opener Over New Orleans Pelicans with Ja Morant's 35 Points

The Memphis Grizzlies kicked off their 2025-26 NBA season with a thrilling 128-122 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, led by star guard Ja Morant's impressive 35-point performance. Morant, who missed the preseason due to a sprained ankle, demonstrated his leadership and clutch skills, delivering a decisive floater in the final seconds to secure the win. Despite missing key players like Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jock Landale in the fourth quarter, the Grizzlies maintained composure, supported by Jackson's 18 points, eight rebounds, and six blocks. Newcomer Cedric Coward contributed a perfect shooting night with 14 points, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was flawless from the free-throw line in his Memphis debut. The match also featured a strong showing from the Pelicans' Zion Williamson, who scored 27 points and grabbed nine rebounds, but his team couldn't overcome Memphis's late-game surge. Overall, the win served as a statement for the Grizzlies, signaling their resilience and Morant's vital role as their undisputed leader moving forward.