Ja Morant delivered one of the most thrilling moments of the 2024-25 NBA season on Thursday night, hitting a game-winning jumper at the buzzer to give the Memphis Grizzlies a dramatic 110-108 victory over the Miami Heat at Kaseya Center.
With the game tied at 108-108 and just 13.1 seconds remaining, Morant took control of the final possession. Guarded by Miami rookie Kel’el Ware, the Grizzlies’ star maneuvered to his spot and sank a 12-foot step-back jumper that rolled around the rim before falling as time expired. The clutch shot not only snapped Memphis’ four-game losing streak but also moved the Grizzlies into sixth place in the Western Conference standings, ahead of the Los Angeles Clippers and Minnesota Timberwolves—a key position to avoid the NBA Play-In Tournament.
Following the buzzer-beater, Morant celebrated courtside with his father, Tee Morant, who flashed his wrist and shouted, “What time is it? Game time!” When asked about the final play, Morant confidently responded, “A pigeon was guarding me,” before adding, “I had to go get a bucket and win the game.”
Ja Morant Stats vs Heat:
- 30 points (11 in the fourth quarter)
- Game-winning shot as time expired
The electrifying performance came hours after USA TODAY Sports reported that the NBA would not penalize Morant or Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield for previously controversial hand gestures interpreted as gun-related. Despite using the gesture again after a made 3-pointer early in the game, the league confirmed no disciplinary action would be taken.
Other Grizzlies Highlights:
- Desmond Bane: 17 points, 9 rebounds
- Scotty Pippen Jr.: 17 points off the bench
Miami Heat Highlights:
- Tyler Herro: Game-high 35 points
- Bam Adebayo: 26 points, 5 assists, 2 blocks
- Kel’el Ware: 13 points, 15 rebounds
The loss ended the Miami Heat’s six-game winning streak and marked a significant shake-up in both conferences’ playoff races.
