Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant had extra motivation heading into the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, making his competitive fire clear with a post-game statement. Morant’s frustration with the Lakers stems from past playoff encounters, including their first-round series in 2023 when the Lakers eliminated the Grizzlies in six games. Additionally, during the 2023-24 season, the Lakers beat Memphis on its home floor with Morant sidelined due to injury. His strong performance in the 131-114 victory, scoring 20 points, highlighted his desire for revenge against the team that had previously bested him.
Although Morant only played 24 minutes before exiting with a right hamstring injury in the third quarter, his presence on the court was impactful. The Grizzlies did not provide an update on his injury following the game, leaving uncertainty around his condition. The game marked the first meeting between the two teams since their dramatic final matchup in the 2023-24 regular season, where LeBron James led the Lakers to a narrow 123-120 victory, delivering a show-stopping dunk to seal the win. Morant, recovering from a shoulder injury, had missed that game, further fueling his competitive edge.
The game featured intense moments between Morant and Lakers star LeBron James, particularly toward the end of the first half. Both players exchanged baskets in a highly charged sequence, with Morant and James using the “too small” taunt to highlight their scoring efforts. Morant’s fiery exchange with James even earned him a technical foul, as the atmosphere at FedExForum grew more electric with each play. The game became a showcase of mutual respect, with both stars playing hard to outperform the other.
Morant’s technical foul followed a sequence where he earned a three-point play off a hook shot with just over a minute left in the half. James responded with a quick jumper, but Morant fired back with another layup, leading to his show of emotion. Afterward, Morant explained the meaning behind his actions, expressing his confidence in facing anyone, regardless of their status in the league. He saw his performance as setting the tone for the game, one that his teammates fed off, which ultimately led to the Grizzlies’ victory.
LeBron James acknowledged the competitive nature of the exchange, framing it as a show of mutual respect. He explained that both he and Morant come from similar backgrounds, growing up in inner-city environments where basketball was a way of life. James, who finished the game with 39 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, saw the competitive spirit on display as a natural part of high-level basketball, where players push each other to improve and be better. Despite the on-court intensity, James emphasized that the back-and-forth between him and Morant was rooted in respect.
