The New Orleans Pelicans fell to the Memphis Grizzlies 128-122 on Wednesday night inside the FedExForum. The game marked the NBA season opener for both teams.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
The Pelicans began the 2025-26 season with a 16-6 run to take an early lead over the Grizzlies. Jordan Poole, the newest member of the Pels, started hot with eight of those 16 points.
The hot start would continue, as New Orleans took advantage of a Memphis team that was without a couple of key role players due to injury. They led by as many as 15 when it was 24-9. However, the Grizzlies heated up towards the end of the quarter. They erased most of the deficit, and it was just a 30-27 lead for the Pels after one quarter.
New Orleans never trailed in the second quarter, but Memphis did keep it close for most of the period. However, towards the end of the half, Zion Williamson was able to heat up and spark a run. He had 11 in the half which matched the Pels lead of 11 with a 67-56 advantage at the half.
The third quarter went completely in the wrong direction for New Orleans. Despite leading by as many as 14, Memphis would create a huge run. Despite having four fouls, Jaren Jackson Jr led the charge as the Grizzlies took a 10 point lead of their own at one point. They ended the quarter up 97-89.
In the fourth, the Pelicans battled their way back into the game. Eventually, they were able to get Jackson Jr to foul out as they had the game tied at 115.
Down the stretch, it was Ja Morant stepping up for Memphis. His floated inside of 40 second left made it a 122-118 lead for the Grizzlies.
They were able to hold on despite a late effort from the Pelicans, as Memphis won 128-122.
BIG NUMBER: 17
Despite the loss, rookie Jeremiah Fears had an impressive Pelicans debut. He scored 17 points off the bench, and could figure to be an important piece for New Orleans this year.
PLAYER OF THE GAME: Ja Morant
Morant ended with 33 points in the win. He also had four rebounds and three assists. With Jackson Jr in foul trouble, he led Memphis in this one.
UP NEXT: The Pelicans will return to New Orleans for the home-opener inside the Smoothie King Center against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday, October 24th at 7:00 PM.