On December 28, 2024, the Memphis Grizzlies faced off against the New Orleans Pelicans at FedExForum, producing an electrifying match filled with suspense and momentum shifts. The Grizzlies, aiming to secure their position within the playoff spots, showcased their dominant skills, eventually overcoming the Pelicans with a final score of 115-108.
The game was tightly contested from the start, with both teams exchanging leads often. Midway through the second quarter, the Pelicans took the lead, thanks largely to Zion Williamson's impressive performance. Williamson, known for his explosive play, delivered 29 points, contributing significantly to New Orleans' early momentum. "We always fight until the last whistle," Williamson stated after the game, emphasizing his team's relentless spirit.
Despite the Pelicans' strong start, the Grizzlies responded valiantly. Star guard Ja Morant paced Memphis with 34 points, demonstrating his skill on the court with agile drives and deadly shooting from beyond the arc. Morant's all-around game not only included scoring but also playmaking, as he dished out 8 assists, helping his teammates find open looks throughout the night.
The pivotal moment of the match came late in the fourth quarter. Trailing by five, the Grizzlies launched a fierce comeback. A three-pointer by Desmond Bane followed by key defensive stops allowed them to tie the game with just under two minutes remaining. "That’s the thing about this team; we genuinely believe we can win any game, no matter the odds," Bane noted during the post-game interview.
With momentum swinging back to Memphis, they managed to capitalize on the Pelicans' mistakes. A costly turnover by New Orleans allowed Morant to score again, putting the Grizzlies ahead for the first time since the second quarter. The Pelicans struggled to regain their footing, unable to convert on key possessions down the stretch.
The game took place against the backdrop of the Memphis crowd, who rallied behind their team passionately. This victory not only solidified Memphis’s playoff aspirations but also highlighted their resilience, marking it as their fourth consecutive win.
The victory had significant implications for both teams. The Grizzlies improved their season record to 20-11, firmly positioning themselves among the top contenders for the postseason. Meanwhile, the Pelicans faced challenges, dropping to 14-16 and showing the need for adjustments as they strive to stay afloat within the Western Conference playoff race. "We need to regroup and focus on what we can do to improve. Every game counts, and we missed opportunities today," Pelicans’ coach Willie Green commented, reflecting on the team's challenges moving forward.
Player fatigue and injuries were also discussed post-game as factors trailing the Pelicans’ performance, particularly considering the back-to-back nature of the league’s schedule. The Pelicans had also played just 24 hours earlier, limiting their rest and preparation time, something Green would need to navigate carefully moving forward.
The Grizzlies are set to face their next opponent on January 2, 2025, aiming to extend their winning streak and build momentum heading toward the playoffs. For New Orleans, they will need to rally quickly as they prepare to host the Utah Jazz on January 3, 2025. This loss creates urgency for them to get back on track to regain their competitive edge.
This showdown not only displayed the competitive spirit of two Western Conference teams but highlighted key players who are poised to influence their teams' fates as 2025 approaches.
