Ja Morant Returns, Leads Grizzlies to Win in London
NBA basketball returned to London for the first time in six years, and Memphis star Ja Morant celebrated with 24 points and 13 assists in his comeback from injury. Over 20,000 fans packed the O2 Arena to watch the Grizzlies defeat the Orlando Magic 126-109, marking a triumphant return for both the league and its electrifying point guard.
The NBA came back to London in spectacular fashion Sunday, and Ja Morant made sure fans got their money's worth.
The Memphis Grizzlies star scored 24 points and dished out 13 assists at the O2 Arena, leading his team to a convincing 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic. It marked the first NBA regular-season game in England's capital since 2019, and Morant's first game back after missing six contests with a calf injury.
The timing couldn't have been better for Memphis. The Grizzlies had stumbled through a rough stretch, losing seven of their previous nine games, and needed their dynamic leader back on the court.
Morant delivered immediately, providing the spark that had been missing. His teammates fed off his energy, with Jock Landale adding 21 points and Jaren Jackson Jr. chipping in 17 more.
Memphis dominated from the opening tip, building a stunning 33-point lead in the first half. Orlando fought back in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to 17 points, but the Grizzlies closed strong to secure the win.
The victory was particularly sweet for Memphis after losing to Orlando 118-111 in Berlin just three days earlier. The two teams traveled across Europe for back-to-back games, giving fans on both sides of the continent a chance to see NBA action live.
Over 20,000 fans filled the O2 Arena, marking the 10th regular-season NBA game played in London since the tradition started in March 2011. The atmosphere was electric, with British basketball enthusiasts getting their first taste of live NBA action in more than half a decade.
The Ripple Effect
The NBA's return to London signals a growing commitment to international basketball. League officials have already announced plans for more European games, with Paris and Manchester set to host contests in 2027, followed by Paris and Berlin in 2028.
These international showcases do more than entertain. They inspire young basketball players across Europe, showing them the highest level of competition and making the sport feel accessible beyond American borders.
For Memphis, the London trip offered a fresh start and a chance to reset their season with their star player healthy again.
Basketball's global reach continues to expand, one spectacular game at a time.
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Based on reporting by Sky Sports
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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