NBA roundup: Grizzlies' Ja Morant dazzles in return, Warriors top Celtics in overtime

The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 115-113 thanks to a game-winning layup from Ja Morant, who made an incredible comeback from a 25-game suspension on Tuesday.

The basket marked the end of a spectacular performance by Morant, who scored 34 points, made eight assists, and grabbed six rebounds. His outstanding play was even more impressive considering he had been suspended by the league for the first 25 games of the season due to controversial social media posts featuring firearms.

Despite showing some initial rustiness and signs of weariness towards the end of the game, Morant ultimately exceeded expectations for the Grizzlies.

"I haven't played a game in eight months," he shared with TNT broadcasters. "It's been a challenging journey with many tough days. But basketball is my passion, my therapy, and I'm thrilled to be back."

The Pelicans, led by Brandon Ingram's 34 points, had a commanding 60-41 lead at halftime. However, the Grizzlies fought back in the third quarter, narrowing the gap to 10 points entering the final period.

With 1:20 left in the game, Morant scored a crucial floater, giving the Grizzlies a 111-109 lead, their first since the first quarter.

The score was tied at 113-113 when Morant seized a rebound from a missed shot by CJ McCollum. After a timeout, Morant dribbled the ball up the court and drove into the lane for the game-winning shot.

"It feels like a perfect ending to the day, coming back to play and then hitting the game-winner," Morant remarked after the game.

Before the game, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins had described Morant as "eager," advising him to enjoy the game, bond with his teammates, and relish the opportunity to play again.

Morant faced boos from the crowd in New Orleans but received support from players across the league, including a message from Lakers star LeBron James before the game and another after his impressive performance.

In other games, the Golden State Warriors narrowly defeated the Boston Celtics 132-126 in overtime, with Stephen Curry contributing 33 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter and seven in overtime. The win halted Boston's five-game winning streak.

Meanwhile, Damian Lillard scored a season-high 40 points, reaching the milestone of 20,000 career points, as the Milwaukee Bucks beat the San Antonio Spurs 132-119.

Giannis Antetokounmpo also shone with a triple-double of 11 points, 14 rebounds, and a career-high 16 assists in the absence of Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury.