Overview
- Memphis turned a 67-56 halftime deficit into control with a 41-22 third quarter that included a 27-6 run.
- Ja Morant sealed the win by scoring 11 points in the final 4:16, hitting the go-ahead basket inside the last 33 seconds.
- Zion Williamson led New Orleans with 27 points, nine rebounds, five assists and five steals in a strong all-around effort.
- After evading rookie Jeremiah Fears to run out the clock, Morant pointed at him, prompting Williamson’s playful response of, “Don’t do my young fella like that.”
- Morant joined Michael Jordan and Kiki Vandeweghe with a third 35-plus-point season opener with two or fewer turnovers and is listed questionable for Friday vs. Miami with ankle soreness.