Ja Morant Returns in Memphis Grizzlies Win Over Houston Rockets

In a Wednesday night 130-125 victory over the Houston Rockets, Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies showed that they're ready to move on from a troubling month. In his first game back from a nine-game absence, Morant eased his way back into form, coming off the bench to record 17 points, four rebounds, five assists, two steals, and one block.

the M is behind you @JaMorant 💙 pic.twitter.com/okWXweKiid
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) March 23, 2023

Morant hit 6 of his 13 field goal attempts and played a little under 24 minutes. It was his first appearance since serving an eight-game suspension for brandishing a gun at a Denver nightclub. Morant streamed the incident on Instagram Live.

Morant's relatively painless return bodes well for the Grizzlies. Despite an uneasy couple of weeks, the Grizzlies are 45-27 and second in the Western Conference. Both parties are likely happy to put the past behind them and focus on the playoffs. Morant remains the Grizzlies' most valuable player: his 26.9 points per game and 8.1 assists per game both lead the team. If the Grizzlies are ever going to win a title, they'll need Morant on the court.

Morant's next chance to log a start will be on Friday in a rematch against the Rockets.