Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) celebrates the team's win after an NBA play-in tournament basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Memphis, Tenn.
Ja Morant led the Memphis Grizzlies to a dominant 120-106 win over the Dallas Mavericks, securing their playoff spot. Morant had 16 points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds in the first half, helping the Grizzlies build a 17-point lead. Desmond Bane added 15 points in the first half, and Morant's highlight-reel one-handed putback dunk showcased his athleticism. The Mavericks struggled to contain Memphis in the first two quarters, allowing the Grizzlies to take control. Dallas's struggles continued despite a late surge, and Memphis cruised to the win. The Grizzlies will now face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) celebrates the team's win after an NBA play-in tournament basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Memphis, Tenn.
Dallas Mavericks guard Brandon Williams (10) leaps into the air to block a pass by Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane, left, during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game in Memphis, Tenn.
Dallas Mavericks guard Brandon Williams (10) dribbles the ball past Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. (1) during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey (14) dunks the ball during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) and guard Desmond Bane (22) celebrate late in the second half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (13) celebrates the team's win after an NBA play-in tournament basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, left, shoots the ball over Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (25) during the second half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game in Memphis, Tenn.
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 in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) passes the ball over Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall (13) during the first half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game in Memphis, Tenn.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) battles Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (25) for a loose ball during the first half of an NBA play-in tournament basketball game in Memphis, Tenn.