The Memphis Grizzlies faced a heart-wrenching setback in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 24, 2025. Star guard Ja Morant exited the game with a left hip contusion after a hard fall during the second quarter, leaving fans and teammates in shock. Morant's injury came at a crucial moment, as the Grizzlies held a commanding 26-point lead at halftime before ultimately succumbing to a 114-108 defeat, marking the second-largest playoff comeback in NBA history.
Morant's fall occurred with 3:15 remaining in the first half while attempting a transition layup. The Grizzlies were on a fast break when Morant was undercut by Thunder guard Luguentz Dort, causing him to crash to the court. The officials reviewed the play for a potential flagrant foul but ruled it a common foul. Despite the pain, Morant managed to get back on his feet and limped to the free-throw line, where he attempted two shots but missed both.
After the free throws, Morant was visibly in distress and had to leave the game, ripping off his jersey as he walked toward the locker room. "I could see he was in pain, but he tried to tough it out," said interim coach Tuomas Iisalo. "He’s a warrior. But we knew something wasn’t right when he didn’t make those shots." Morant finished the game with 15 points and five assists in just 16 minutes of play.
Following the game, the Grizzlies announced that Morant would not return and would undergo further evaluations. Iisalo confirmed that Morant was seen on crutches during the fourth quarter and his status for the upcoming Game 4 remains uncertain. "He’ll get scans on his hip tomorrow, and we’ll know more then," Iisalo added. The team is hoping for the best but preparing for the possibility of playing without their star point guard.
This injury adds to Morant's troubled postseason, as he also rolled his ankle in the first play-in game against the Dallas Mavericks on April 18. He had been listed as questionable for that game but played after extensive treatment. Morant's injury history this season has been concerning; he missed eight games earlier in the year due to a posterior hip subluxation after a similar fall during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers in November.
As the Grizzlies grapple with Morant's injury, they also face the daunting task of overcoming a 3-0 series deficit against the Thunder. Memphis had entered the playoffs with high hopes but now finds themselves on the brink of elimination. The Thunder's comeback was remarkable, as they turned a 29-point deficit into a victory, showcasing their resilience and determination.
The atmosphere at FedExForum was electric during the first half, with fans rallying behind the Grizzlies as they built a substantial lead. The crowd erupted in cheers and chants of "MVP" for Morant, who had been performing exceptionally well prior to his injury. However, the energy shifted dramatically in the second half as the Thunder capitalized on the Grizzlies' misfortunes.
"Our togetherness will really be tested going into Game 4," Iisalo remarked, acknowledging the challenge ahead. The Grizzlies will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for a must-win game on Saturday, April 26, at 3:30 p.m. ET. The absence of Morant could be a significant blow, but the team is determined to fight for their playoff lives.
The Thunder, led by their own star players, have shown they can take advantage of any opportunity. They capitalized on the Grizzlies' mistakes and displayed a relentless spirit that has propelled them to a commanding series lead. As the Grizzlies look to bounce back, they will need to rely on their depth and resilience, hoping to rally around the absence of their star player.
With Game 4 looming, the Grizzlies' focus will be on maintaining their composure and executing their game plan effectively. "We have to play for Ja and give everything we have," said Grizzlies guard Luke Kennard, who stepped up in Morant's absence. "We know what’s at stake, and we’re not backing down." The upcoming game will be a true test of character for the Grizzlies, who must dig deep to keep their postseason hopes alive.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on Morant's recovery and the Grizzlies' ability to adapt without their star player. The outcome of Game 4 could determine the fate of their season, and fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Morant's condition. The stakes couldn't be higher as Memphis looks to avoid elimination and keep their playoff dreams alive.
