Imagine a basketball game where a team clawed its way back from a double-digit deficit in the second half, fueled by a player's explosive fourth-quarter performance. That's exactly what happened when the New Orleans Pelicans stunned the Memphis Grizzlies in a thrilling 133-127 victory on January 23, 2026. But here's where it gets controversial: was this a testament to the Pelicans' resilience, or a glaring example of the Grizzlies' inability to close out games? Let's dive in.
Saddiq Bey emerged as the hero of the night, pouring in a season-high 36 points, with a staggering 19 of those coming in the final quarter. His clutch performance, coupled with Trey Murphy III's 32 points and Zion Williamson's 24 points and 11 rebounds, propelled the Pelicans to snap their three-game losing streak. And this is the part most people miss: Williamson's dominance in the paint against a smaller Grizzlies defense was a turning point, showcasing his ability to exploit mismatches when it mattered most.
For the Grizzlies, Jaren Jackson Jr. led the charge with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Jock Landale contributed 24 points and 11 rebounds. Cam Spencer added 21 points on an efficient 7-of-9 shooting, including 4-of-6 from beyond the arc. Despite their efforts, Memphis couldn't hold onto their 13-point lead in the third quarter, raising questions about their consistency and late-game execution.
The Pelicans, who had lost six straight to Memphis, found themselves trailing 123-122 after Jackson's basket. However, a three-point play by Williamson and a clutch 3-pointer by Bey sealed the deal for New Orleans. Here’s a bold take: Could this game mark a turning point for the Pelicans, who currently sit in last place in the Western Conference, while the Grizzlies, now outside the top 10, continue to struggle without their star guard, Ja Morant?
Speaking of Morant, his absence due to a left elbow UCL strain has sparked growing trade rumors. His sporadic availability—playing just two games after a six-game absence—has left fans and analysts alike wondering about his future with the team. Is this the beginning of the end for Morant in Memphis, or just a temporary setback?
Memphis' hot start to the second half, converting 12 of 16 shots (including all six 3-point attempts), seemed to set the tone for a Grizzlies victory. Yet, the Pelicans' relentless effort, particularly from Williamson and Bey, flipped the script. By the end of the third quarter, Memphis led 101-93, but New Orleans' fourth-quarter surge proved too much to handle.
As the dust settles, the Pelicans look to build on this momentum as they continue their three-game road trip in San Antonio on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies will host the Denver Nuggets, hoping to rebound from this disappointing loss. What do you think? Was this game a fluke, or a sign of bigger things to come for the Pelicans? And is Memphis' season slipping away without Morant? Let us know in the comments!
