Ja Morant

Wisely eased back into flow during his first week back from injury, Ja Morant — with the Memphis Grizzlies comfortably in control throughout November 29, 2024’s win — likely understood that his on-court time would be restricted and limited. As for his in-air, flight-taking time? Not so much. Persistent in his second effort following a 3-point attempt that goes slightly awry, Morant catches the opposition unprepared, sneaking backdoor to prime himself for a teammate’s rebound and subsequent alley-oop lob attempt. Springing higher than any pelican could dare fly, Morant meets the rim at eye level, powering in a one-handed flush to both energize FedEx Forum, and supply a 12-point third quarter lead. Ahead for 45 of a possible 48 minutes, the Grizzlies benefitted from Morant’s energy, cruising to a fifth-consecutive win over the New Orleans Pelicans. Dazzling on an almost point-per-minute basis, Morant, in 29 minutes, ran up 27 points (on 10-of-18 shooting), accompanied by three rebounds, seven assists, and three swipes.