The NBA returned to London for the first time since 2019, and Ja Morant made sure the wait was worth it.
In a high-stakes matchup at The O2 Arena on Sunday, the Memphis Grizzlies secured a dominant 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic. The story of the night wasn’t just the final score, but the electrifying return of Ja Morant, who silenced trade rumors and injury concerns with a masterclass performance on the global stage.
A Triumphant Return from Injury
After missing the last six games with a right calf contusion, Morant was a game-time decision. Despite being on a pre-game minutes restriction, he showed zero signs of rust. Morant erupted for a first-half double-double, finishing the night with 24 points, 13 assists, and 5 rebounds in just 28 minutes of action.
From the opening tip, Morant’s speed and playmaking shifted the Grizzlies into a gear they’ve lacked during his absence. Memphis jumped out to a staggering 33-point lead in the first half, fueled by Morant’s 20 points and 10 assists before the break.
“I’m a Very Loyal Guy”: Morant Addresses Trade Rumors
The backdrop of this game was thick with speculation. With the NBA trade deadline approaching on February 5, reports had surfaced suggesting Memphis might be open to moving their franchise cornerstone.
Morant didn’t just answer those rumors with his play; he addressed them head-on post-game. Pointing to the Grizzlies logo tattooed on his back, Morant told reporters:
“I’ve got a logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be. If anybody in here knows me… I’m a very loyal guy.”
He described being back on the court as “therapeutic,” emphasizing that despite the outside noise, his commitment to Memphis remains unshaken.
Grizzlies Avenge Berlin Loss
The victory provided much-needed revenge for Memphis. Just three days prior, the two teams met in Berlin for the first leg of the NBA Europe Series, where Orlando overcame a 20-point deficit to win 118-111.
In London, the Grizzlies refused to let history repeat itself. While the Magic—led by Anthony Black (19 points) and Wendell Carter Jr. (18 points)—attempted a fourth-quarter surge to cut the lead to 16, Memphis stayed poised. Jock Landale was a force off the bench with 21 points, and Jaren Jackson Jr. added 17 points to ensure the lead held firm.
Stars Out at The O2
The atmosphere in London felt like an All-Star weekend. Commissioner Adam Silver watched from courtside, joined by NBA legends including Pau Gasol, Steve Nash, Dirk Nowitzki, and Isaiah Thomas. The sell-out crowd was treated to the full “Ja Morant Experience,” including high-flying transitions and precision passing that reminded the world why he is one of the league’s most marketable stars.
What’s Next for Memphis?
The Grizzlies (now having won 3 of their last 10) head back across the Atlantic with renewed momentum. The focus now shifts to the trade deadline and the push toward the All-Star break. If Morant remains healthy and plays at this “lightning bolt” level, the conversation in Memphis will quickly shift from trade packages to playoff seeding.
Final Score: Memphis Grizzlies 126, Orlando Magic 109.
