Ja Morant, the rising star of the Memphis Grizzlies, made a triumphant return to the court following his NBA suspension. In a thrilling game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Morant sealed the victory with a jaw-dropping buzzer-beater. The 24-year-old point guard had been sidelined for the first 25 matches of the season, but he wasted no time in reestablishing his dominance. Following the game, basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, a TNT Sports expert, showered Morant with praise for his remarkable comeback and ability to silence his critics.
Shaquille O’Neal Cheers Ja Morant’s Buzzer Beater Return
The suspension stemmed from an unfortunate incident in May, where Morant was captured on an Instagram Live video holding a firearm, marking his second such incident in just two months. The NBA responded with a 25-game suspension, leaving the Grizzlies struggling with a discouraging 6-19 record in Morant’s absence. However, his return injected a much-needed spark into the team and brought hope to their supporters.
"That's how you come back… This guy wants to be great."
Shaq reacts to Ja's performance in his return pic.twitter.com/kJOEV1NWGj
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) December 20, 2023
As Morant stepped onto the court against the Pelicans, he was met with a chorus of boos from the home crowd. But the resilient young player had the last laugh. In a display of incredible skill and composure, he sank a buzzer-beating shot, securing a thrilling 115-113 victory for the Grizzlies. The crowd’s boos quickly turned into stunned silence, and Morant’s teammates swarmed him in celebration.
JA MORANT WINS IT AT THE BUZZER 🤯 pic.twitter.com/Tu2MAComDY
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) December 20, 2023
O’Neal commended Morant’s resilience, stating, “That’s how you come back. It’s a hell of a comeback story, probably one of the best comeback stories I’ve seen.” He acknowledged Morant’s mistake, but also highlighted his maturity and acceptance of the consequences. O’Neal added, “He did his time, he paid his dues, he didn’t complain. As we say in the streets, he took it like a real G.“
O’Neal’s admiration for Morant’s determination was evident as he continued, “This guy wants to be great. I respect guys like this who want to be great.” The legendary center concluded his praise by expressing happiness for Morant and his family, giving him a resounding “golf clap” and emphasizing that this was an exemplary way to make a comeback.
When asked about his game-winning performance, Morant humbly expressed his passion for the sport, saying, “I’m a dog. I put work in. Basketball is my life, what I love. Therapeutic for me.” He acknowledged the challenges he faced during his absence and the personal growth he experienced during that time.
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Morant’s remarkable comeback and the support he received from basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal serve as a testament to his resilience and determination. With his return, the Memphis Grizzlies have newfound hope for a successful season. Morant’s story is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hard work and dedication can lead to triumphant moments on and off the court.