The Memphis Grizzlies returned to FedExForum to face the Los Angeles Lakers following a two-game road trip. Memphis split those games, going 1-1, but the highlight was Ja Morant’s pair of 360 layups against the Nets that went viral and had fans buzzing nationwide. Back on their home court, the Grizzlies defeated the Lakers 131-114.
A Game of Absences and Returns
The game was marked by notable absences on both sides. Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins missed the game to attend a family member’s funeral, with assistant coach Tuomas Iisalo stepping in as head coach. This is Iisalo’s first season with the Grizzlies, and he’s also credited as the mind behind the team’s revamped offense.
The Lakers were without Anthony Davis and Rui Hachimura, while Memphis saw the return of Luke Kennard, making his season debut. Also in attendance were Tennessee Volunteers head coach Rick Barnes and former NBA star Scottie Pippen Sr.
Reflecting on his emotions stepping into the head coach role, Iisalo said, “I’ve been doing this for over 10 years, and before each game, there’s always that excitement. I’ve learned to see it as a positive—it means I’m in the right frame of mind and prepared.”
Grizzlies Set the Tone Early
Memphis got off to a fast start, ending the first quarter with a 35-27 lead. Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. each scored seven points in the opening period, while D’Angelo Russell led the Lakers with nine points.
Tensions escalated in the final minutes of the second quarter when LeBron James scored on two consecutive drives, getting physical and stepping over Brandon Clarke after his second basket. Morant responded with a score of his own and intentionally bumped James to make a statement, earning a technical foul to the crowd’s delight.
A Strong Third Quarter
Memphis, often prone to letting leads slip in the third quarter, maintained their intensity this time. A pair of three-pointers from Jay Huff capped a 10-0 run, pushing Memphis’s lead to 80-68 and forcing a Lakers timeout. However, the Grizzlies took a hit when Morant left the game with 3:27 remaining in the third after an awkward landing. The team later reported he had a hamstring injury and would not return. Still, Memphis led 95-81 at the end of the quarter.
After the game, Morant didn’t hold back when discussing his feelings about playing against the Lakers. “I don’t like them,” he said. “They knocked me out of the playoffs. Last year, they came in here and popped us on our home floor. I was in street clothes. I wasn’t tonight.”
Fourth Quarter and Memorable Moments
The Lakers, closing out a five-game road trip, couldn’t muster a comeback, despite LeBron James’s efforts to rally his team in the fourth quarter. James’s son, Bronny James, the 55th pick in this year’s draft, entered the game late, drawing excitement from fans who captured his debut moments on their phones. Rookie Yuki Kawamura also saw the floor in the final minute, scoring his first career points and receiving the game ball to commemorate the milestone.
James led the Lakers (4-4) with 39 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Austin Reaves added 19 points, and Cam Reddish contributed 15 points off the bench. The Lakers made 15 three-pointers but struggled in transition, one of their known weaknesses, which Memphis exploited.
Memphis (5-4) dominated inside, scoring 60 points in the paint. Seven Grizzlies finished in double figures, including Morant, Jaylen Wells, and Jackson, each with 20 points. Scottie Pippen Jr. added 14 points and four assists, while Jake LaRavia chipped in 13 points and eight assists. The Grizzlies also held a 50-28 advantage on the boards.
Importance of Every Game
The Western Conference remains tight, with just a game and a half separating third place from tenth. Reflecting on the competitive landscape, Jackson emphasized the urgency, saying, “The West is probably going to look like this every year. Everyone’s going to have ups and downs, especially when we play each other. It’s important to get the wins we’re supposed to get.”
On the experience of playing against LeBron James, Jackson added, “It’s great. He’s someone I’ve looked up to for a long time. When you get a chance to guard someone you admire, it’s a great feeling.”
Next Up
The Grizzlies continue their homestand with a game against the Washington Wizards on Friday, Nov. 8, at FedExForum. Following that, they’ll hit the road and won’t return home until Sunday, Nov. 17, when they host the Denver Nuggets.
