On January 16, the energy in the FedExForum reached a fever pitch as Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies soared toward the hoop for an unforgettable dunk over San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama. The crowd erupted into cheers, and for a moment, everything seemed perfect. But in a surprising twist, the spectacular dunk didn’t count due to a foul called just before Morant took flight, leaving fans buzzing with excitement and a hint of disappointment.
Morant’s Stunning Performance
Despite the invalidation of his eye-popping dunk, Ja Morant’s overall performance in the game was nothing short of phenomenal. He played a key role in leading the Grizzlies to a convincing 129-115 victory, scoring 21 points and dishing out 12 assists. This win not only improved the Grizzlies’ record to 26-15, but also extended their winning streak against the Spurs to an impressive nine games. The atmosphere was electric as Morant continuously displayed his incredible talent throughout the night.
A Close Call for Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama, the 7’3” sensation who has taken the NBA by storm, was ready for the challenge as he faced Morant. He managed to contribute to his team’s efforts with a solid performance himself, scoring 13 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and blocking 8 shots. Wembanyama’s presence in the paint added an extra layer of excitement, but ultimately, it was Morant’s dunk that had everyone talking. Unfortunately, in sports, sometimes the most thrilling moments can come with a catch.
What Happened? A Breakdown of the Play
As the game unfolded, the Grizzlies were already leading 122-111 late in the fourth quarter when Morant made his jaw-dropping move. However, just before he took off, a foul was called against teammate Stephon Castle. This critical call meant that Morant’s dunk, which is already being dubbed a “poster of the year candidate,” would not count in the score that night. Even though it was not an official point on the board, it didn’t stop the Grizzlies bench from going wild with excitement. Morant himself acknowledged it, saying, “I just go for the dunk on anyone near the rim.”
Upcoming Rematch
While fans wished the dunk could have counted, the good news is that the Grizzlies and Spurs will face off again on January 17. Both teams will have another opportunity to impress their followers as they gear up for the rematch in San Antonio. Players and fans alike will undoubtedly have their eyes on Morant, who seems ready to dazzle once more—this time, perhaps, with a dunk that counts!
Quick Facts on the Game
- Final Score: Memphis Grizzlies 129, San Antonio Spurs 115
- Morant’s Stats: 21 points, 12 assists
- Wembanyama’s Stats: 13 points, 12 rebounds, 8 blocks
- Next Game: Rematch on January 17 in San Antonio
