Ja Morant's triumphant return to the court marked a pivotal moment for the Memphis Grizzlies as he scored 31 points, leading them to a 122-111 victory over the Dallas Mavericks. This win not only broke a four-game losing streak but also repositioned Memphis in the competitive landscape of the Western Conference. Morant's performance came on the heels of a shoulder injury, showcasing his determination despite shooting struggles from beyond the arc.

Desmond Bane contributed significantly with 27 points and 16 rebounds, while rookie Zach Edey made an impact with his rebounding efforts. The Grizzlies, now 38-24, are fighting for playoff positioning and face a series of favorable matchups against struggling teams like the New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz. In contrast, the Mavericks' playoff hopes dimmed further with the loss, complicating their quest for a play-in spot.