The Dallas Mavericks could not pass the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday in their do-or-die game to punch the ticket to the playoffs. Despite Anthony Davis’ game-high score, they fell to the Grizzlies 120-106 at FedEx Forum on Friday. On the other hand, the Grizzlies saw a balanced team effort from Ja Morant’s gang.
One of the game’s most intense moments came early in the first quarter during a heated exchange between Anthony Davis and Ja Morant. Both stars were mic’d up and caught exchanging competitive words.
“I’ll guard you though,” Davis confidently told Morant. The Grizzlies guard didn’t hesitate to respond, challenging him back with, “Yeah, come on!”
"I'll guard you though."
— ESPN (@espn) April 19, 2025
"Yeah come on!"
This exchange between AD and Ja Morant 🗣️🗣️🗣️ pic.twitter.com/iA2e6Xjr7u
It didn’t take long for Morant to deliver. Just minutes after the exchange, Morant responded with a thunderous putback dunk following a missed shot from teammate Santi Aldama. The highlight play ignited the Memphis crowd and gave the Grizzlies a wave of momentum.
JA MORANT PUTBACK DUNK! pic.twitter.com/laF1CLh8cV
— Italo Santana (@BulletClubIta) April 19, 2025
Morant reportedly received an injection prior to the game to manage an ankle injury but didn’t let it slow him down. He finished the night with 22 points, seven rebounds, nine assists, and three steals.
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On the other end, Davis delivered a heroic performance. He notched 40 points on 16-of-29 shooting, grabbed nine rebounds, and added two assists.
Ja Morant Shares Message Of Confidence Heading Into First Round
With the win, the Grizzlies move forward into the first round of the playoffs and are set to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. Speaking after the game, Ja Morant reflected on the team’s mindset heading into the next round.
“We’re back where we want to be… back being the underdogs. We have all the confidence in ourselves and ready to go Sunday,” Morant said.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies are marching forward with their swagger intact and their belief unshaken. The road ahead won’t be easy, but after Friday night’s performance no one should count them out.
