With Ja Morant on fire, Grizzlies claim final Western playoff spot

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12)- passes the ball around Dallas Mavericks forward Caleb Martin, right, during the first half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game Friday, April 18, 2025, in Memphis, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Ja Morant led the Memphis Grizzlies to secure the final playoff spot in the NBA Western Conference by defeating the Dallas Mavericks in a crucial play-in game on Friday in Memphis, Tennessee.

Morant, despite a sprained right ankle, participated in the game and delivered an exceptional performance that began with an impressive one-handed dunk, which prompted teammate Desmond Bane to shout “Showtime!” in admiration.

Morant scored 12 of his 22 total points in the first half, aiding the Grizzlies in clinching the No. 8 seed for the playoffs.

The victory confirmed Memphis’ position in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, setting the stage for the first-round matchups.

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