Here’s a game that will leave basketball fans buzzing: the New Orleans Pelicans clawed their way back from a double-digit deficit to stun the Memphis Grizzlies 133-127 on Friday night. But here’s where it gets controversial—was this a triumph of Pelicans’ resilience or a collapse by the Grizzlies? Let’s dive in.
In a thrilling showdown in Memphis, Tenn., Saddiq Bey emerged as the hero, scoring a staggering 19 of his season-high 36 points in the fourth quarter. His clutch performance, combined with Trey Murphy III’s 32 points and Zion Williamson’s 24 points and 11 rebounds, propelled the Pelicans to victory and snapped their three-game losing streak. And this is the part most people miss—Williamson’s dominance in the paint against a smaller Grizzlies defense was a game-changer, showcasing his ability to take over when it matters most.
For the Grizzlies, Jaren Jackson Jr. led the charge with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Jock Landale chipped in 24 points and 11 rebounds. Cam Spencer added 21 points, shooting an impressive 7 of 9 from the field, including 4 of 6 from beyond the arc. Despite their efforts, Memphis couldn’t hold off the Pelicans’ late surge, raising questions about their consistency without star guard Ja Morant, who sat out with a left elbow UCL strain. Is Morant’s absence the real reason for Memphis’ struggles, or is there more to the story?
Memphis, who had won six straight against New Orleans, looked in control after building a 13-point lead in the third quarter. However, the Pelicans chipped away, with Williamson and Bey leading the charge in the fourth. A three-point play by Williams and a clutch 3-pointer by Bey sealed the deal, leaving Grizzlies fans wondering what could have been.
Currently, the Pelicans are anchoring the last spot in the Western Conference, while the Grizzlies hover just outside the top 10, having lost five of their last seven games. Are the Pelicans turning a corner, or is this just a fleeting moment of success? Meanwhile, Memphis’ hot shooting in the second half—converting 12 of 16 shots, including all six 3-point attempts—wasn’t enough to secure the win. Does this highlight a deeper issue with their defensive strategy?
Looking ahead, the Pelicans continue their three-game road trip in San Antonio on Sunday, while the Grizzlies host the Denver Nuggets. Will the Pelicans build on this momentum, or will they revert to their previous struggles? And for the Grizzlies, can they regroup without Morant, or is their season slipping away? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this game has sparked plenty of debate, and we want to hear your take!
