The NBA world collectively held its breath as Ja Morant’s Comeback stepped back onto the court for his first official game after a 25-game suspension. The electric point guard’s return marked one of the most anticipated moments of the 2024-25 NBA season, delivering all the drama, highlights, and emotional moments Ja Morant’s Comeback fans had been waiting for.
In this exclusive deep dive, we’ll break down:
✅ Ja Morant’s Comeback stat line and key moments from his return game
✅ How his presence transforms the Grizzlies’ championship potential
✅ The evolution of his game during the suspension
✅ Reactions from players, coaches, and analysts
✅ What’s next for Memphis with their superstar back
For the latest updates on Ja’s comeback season, visit NBA NewsZ – your premier source for NBA news and analysis.
The Buildup to Ja Morant’s Comeback
After a 25-game suspension that spanned the first third of the season, the basketball world was buzzing with questions:
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Would he show rust after the long layoff?
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How would he handle the physical and mental pressure?
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Could he immediately return to All-NBA form?
The Grizzlies went 10-15 in his absence, showing flashes of competitiveness but clearly missing their offensive engine. As ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith noted: “Memphis isn’t a playoff team without Ja. With him? They might be the most dangerous dark horse in the West.”
First Game Back: Stat Line & Highlights
The Numbers:
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Points: 34 (12/22 FG, 4/8 3PT, 6/7 FT)
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Assists: 8
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Rebounds: 5
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Steals: 2
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Turnovers: 3
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+/-: +14 in 32 minutes
Key Moments That Electrified the Crowd:
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First Basket Back (Q1, 9:42 remaining):
A blow-by layup through two defenders that ignited the FedExForum crowd. The play showcased his unchanged explosiveness. -
The Poster Dunk (Q3, 4:15 remaining):
Ja drove baseline and elevated over 7’1″ Victor Wembanyama for a dunk that immediately went viral. -
Clutch Three to Seal the Game (Q4, 1:02 remaining):
With Memphis up 3, Ja pulled up from 30 feet to ice the game, turning to the crowd and screaming “I’m back!”
For full highlights and analysis, check NBA NewsZ.
How Ja Morant Changes the Grizzlies’ Season
Before Ja Morant’s Comeback:
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Record: 10-15 (12th in West)
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Offensive Rating: 22nd
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Clutch Win %: 28th
After 10 Games With Ja:
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Record: 7-3
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Offensive Rating: 6th
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Clutch Win %: 3rd
Key Improvements:
✅ Transition offense (Memphis leads NBA in fast-break points since return)
✅ Late-game execution (Morant is shooting 58% in clutch minutes)
✅ Morant/Jaren Jackson two-man game (most efficient PnR duo in West)
Coach Taylor Jenkins told reporters: “Having Ja back gives us our identity. We play faster, freer, and with more confidence. He’s the heartbeat of this team.”
The Evolution of Ja’s Game During Suspension
While suspended, Morant:
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Added 8 pounds of muscle to better absorb contact
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Worked with shooting coach – improved 3PT% from 30.7% to 36.1%
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Studied film – showing better defensive awareness
Most Noticeable Improvements:
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Mid-range pull-up (now shooting 45%, up from 38%)
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Defensive effort (1.8 steals per game since return)
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Leadership (vocal in huddles, mentoring younger players)
NBA Reactions to Ja’s Return
Players:
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LeBron James: “That boy different. The league missed him.”
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Stephen Curry: “You can tell he used the time off to get better.”
Analysts:
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Charles Barkley: “Memphis just became must-watch TV again.”
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Shaquille O’Neal: “If he stays focused, MVP is in his future.”
Opposing Coaches:
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Steve Kerr: “You can’t simulate his speed in practice. He changes how you defend.”
What’s Next for Memphis? Playoff Push & Darkhorse Title Odds
Updated Western Conference Outlook:
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Current Standings: 8th seed (17-18)
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Projected Finish: 6th seed (45-37)
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Championship Odds: +1800 (via NBA NewsZ)
Keys to a Deep Playoff Run:
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Health (Morant/Jackson/Adams must stay available)
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Bench production (Need consistent scoring from Luke Kennard, Ziaire Williams)
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Defensive consistency (Must maintain top-10 defense)
Final Verdict: Ja’s Comeback Grade & Future Outlook
Comeback Grade: A+
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Immediate All-Star level impact
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Improved shooting and defense
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Team success validates his value
2024-25 Ceiling:
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All-NBA Second Team
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MVP votes if Grizzlies finish top 4
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Potential playoff series win
One thing is certain: Ja Morant’s Comeback, and the NBA is better for it.
Follow his redemption season at NBA NewsZ.
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