Future of the NBA rolls through New Orleans Pelicans, Grizzlies
The future of the NBA starts with New Orleans Pelicans and rolls up I-55 to Memphis thanks to the top two draft picks from the 2019 draft, Zion Williamson and Ja Morant.
Friday night saw the much-anticipated matchup between #1 overall pick Zion and Ja, the #2 overall pick as the New Orleans Pelicans hosted the Memphis Grizzlies. While this was round 2 for the Western Division rivals, it was the first time Zion Williamson played against his childhood AAU teammate, Ja Morant.
The matchup did not disappoint with highlight-reel moments created by both rookie sensations throughout the game. Early in the game, Williamson was the receiving end of an alley-oop. Five games into his professional tenure, and it’s becoming a common sight.
One of the highlights of the game for Williamson was his ridiculous alley-oop from Jrue Holiday, on a lob that went a little beyond his reach. But he somehow managed to catch it behind the backboard in mid-air with his left hand, quickly switch the ball to his right as he went in for the score. You have to see it from this angle to appreciate just how amazing that moment was.
What this young man can do with his body control is unreal. He ended the night with a career-high of 24 points in 28 minutes.
On the other end of the floor, the Grizzlies’ Ja Morant was providing his own highlight reel material. His dunk on the receiving end of an alley-oop in the 2nd quarter cut the Pels lead and gave the Grizzlies some life.
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Morant ended the game with 16 points in 27 minutes.
If Friday night is any indication, we are in for a real treat for years to come with these two superstars in the making playing each other.
The win for the Pelicans was a huge team effort with 8 players in double digits, including All-Star, Brandon Ingram, with 20 in 24 minutes.
The team shot 53.7% from the field and racked up 57 rebounds. They were most impressive on the boards offensively, with 16 total, 4 on one possession alone which ended in a reverse dunk by Williamson.
To be able to see these two emerging stars in the NBA play on the same court was special and showcased what is sure to be a great rivalry for years to come.
The future of the NBA is definitely rolling along the Mississippi River, through the cities of New Orleans and Memphis.