The Grizzlies’ Dominant Third Quarter: How Memphis Outlasted the Pelicans in the Season Opener

The 2024-25 NBA season tipped off with a bang as the Memphis Grizzlies used a big third quarter to beat the New Orleans Pelicans in a thrilling opener. With star power on both sides—Ja Morant’s explosive playmaking and Zion Williamson’s relentless scoring—the game was a statement for two teams with playoff ambitions. But it was Memphis’ 28-12 third-quarter run that turned the tide, showcasing their defensive intensity and clutch shooting when it mattered most.

For fans, this wasn’t just another regular-season game—it was a preview of Western Conference fireworks. The Grizzlies’ ability to flip the script in the third quarter highlighted their resilience, while the Pelicans’ struggles in that stretch raised early questions about their consistency. Whether you’re a die-hard NBA analyst or a casual fan, this matchup offered key takeaways about what to expect this season.

In this breakdown, we’ll dive into:

• How the Grizzlies’ third-quarter surge changed the game
• Standout performances from Ja Morant, Zion Williamson, and rising stars
• Defensive adjustments that swung momentum
• What this result means for both teams’ playoff hopes
• Key stats and trends to watch in their next matchups

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The Game-Changing Third Quarter: How Memphis Took Over

The first half was a back-and-forth battle, with the Pelicans holding a slim 58-56 lead at halftime. Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson combined for 32 points in the first two quarters, exploiting mismatches in the paint and mid-range. Meanwhile, Ja Morant kept the Grizzlies afloat with his signature floater and transition plays, but Memphis struggled to contaiew Orleans’ offensive rebounds.

Then came the third quarter—and everything changed.

Defensive Intensity Sparks the Run

Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins made a critical adjustment: switching to a small-ball lineup with Jaren Jackson Jr. at center and Desmond Bane guarding Ingram. The Grizzlies’ length disrupted the Pelicans’ rhythm, forcing turnovers and contested shots. New Orleans, which shot 48% in the first half, plummeted to 29% in the third quarter as Memphis’ defensive pressure ratcheted up.

Key defensive plays in the third:

• Ja Morant’s steal and fast-break dunk (3:12 mark) ignited the crowd and swung momentum.
• Jaren Jackson Jr.’s three blocks in the quarter, including a chase-down rejection on Zion Williamson.
• Desmond Bane’s on-ball defense limited Ingram to 1-4 shooting in the period.

Offensive Explosion: Morant and Bane Take Over

While the defense set the tone, the Grizzlies’ offense capitalized. Ja Morant, who finished with 28 points and 9 assists, orchestrated the attack with a mix of drives and kick-outs. Desmond Bane, the team’s secondary scorer, caught fire with 14 points in the third alone, including three clutch three-pointers.

Memphis’ third-quarter scoring breakdown:

• Fast-break points: 12 (compared to just 2 in the first half)
• Three-pointers: 5-8 (62.5%) after shooting 3-12 in the first half
• Free throws: 8-10, capitalizing on aggressive drives

By the end of the quarter, the Grizzlies led 84-70, a stuing 18-point swing in 12 minutes. The Pelicans never recovered.

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Standout Performances: Who Shined (and Who Struggled)

Grizzlies’ Heroes

Ja Morant (28 PTS, 9 AST, 4 REB) – The face of the franchise delivered when it mattered, especially in the third quarter. His ability to draw fouls (10-11 FT) and create for others kept the Pelicans’ defense guessing.

Desmond Bane (24 PTS, 5-9 3PT) – Bane’s shooting was the difference-maker. His three-pointer with 1:30 left in the third extended the lead to 14, effectively putting the game out of reach.

Jaren Jackson Jr. (16 PTS, 8 REB, 3 BLK) – Jackson’s rim protection and mid-range shooting (2-3 from 15+ feet) stabilized the Grizzlies’ defense and spacing.

Pelicans’ Bright Spots (and Concerns)

Zion Williamson (26 PTS, 10 REB) – Zion was a force in the paint, but his 6 turnovers and struggles against Memphis’ small-ball lineups were costly. His conditioning and late-game fatigue will be worth monitoring.

Brandon Ingram (22 PTS, 6 AST) – Ingram started hot (14 PTS in 1H) but disappeared in the third quarter (2 PTS on 1-4 FG). His matchup with Bane could be a recurring issue.

CJ McCollum (15 PTS, 4-12 FG) – McCollum’s shooting woes continued from last postseason. If the Pelicans want to contend, he’ll need to be more efficient.

Key Stat: The Pelicans were outscored 28-12 in the third quarter, their worst quarter of the season (yes, it’s only one game, but ominous nonetheless).

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What This Game Means for Both Teams

For the Grizzlies: A Statement of Resilience

After a disappointing first-round exit last postseason, the Grizzlies entered 2024-25 with questions about their depth and defensive consistency. This win—especially the third-quarter dominance—sent a message:

• Their small-ball lineups work. Jenkins’ decision to play Bane at the 4 in crunch time could be a season-long strategy.
• Ja Morant is back to his All-NBA form. After an up-and-down 2023, his aggression and efficiency were encouraging.
• Jaren Jackson Jr. is a DPOY candidate. His rim protection and switchability anchor the defense.

Next Test: The Grizzlies face the Nuggets on Oct. 25. If they can replicate this defensive intensity against Nikola Jokić, they’ll prove this wasn’t a fluke.

For the Pelicans: Early Warning Signs

The Pelicans were a trendy sleeper pick after adding Dejounte Murray in the offseason, but this loss exposed familiar issues:

• Third-quarter collapses. They were outscored by 16+ in the third quarter 10 times last season—a habit they can’t afford to repeat.
• Zion’s stamina. Williamson looked gassed in the fourth quarter, raising concerns about his conditioning for a full 82-game slate.
• Lack of a true secondary creator. With Murray sidelined (injury), the Pelicans struggled to generate offense outside of Zion and Ingram.

Next Test: A home game against the Suns on Oct. 26. If they can’t fix their third-quarter woes, Phoenix’s firepower (Booker, Durant, Beal) will exploit them.

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Key Takeaways and Trends to Watch

1. The Grizzlies’ Third-Quarter Identity

Memphis outscored opponents by +5.2 points per 100 possessions in the third quarter last season (3rd in the NBA). If they can maintain this trend, they’ll be a nightmare in close games.

2. Zion’s Usage Rate vs. Efficiency

Williamson had a 38.1% usage rate in this game—the highest of his career in a single game. While his scoring is elite, the Pelicans need him to be more efficient (26 PTS on 24 FGA) to sustain success.

3. Desmond Bane’s Breakout Potential

Bane’s 24-point outburst wasn’t a fluke—he averaged 21.5 PPG in the 2023 playoffs. If he emerges as a consistent second option, the Grizzlies’ ceiling rises significantly.

4. Pelicans’ Bench Woes

New Orleans’ reserves scored just 19 points combined. With Murray injured, they desperately need Trey Murphy III or Naji Marshall to step up.

5. Free Throw Disparity

The Grizzlies attempted 30 free throws to the Pelicans’ 18—a trend that could favor Memphis in physical matchups all season.

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How to Watch the Next Chapter: Grizzlies vs. Pelicans Rematch

The Grizzlies and Pelicans will face off three more times this season, with their next meeting on November 15 iew Orleans. Here’s what to watch for:

Adjustments the Pelicans Must Make

• Limit transition opportunities. The Grizzlies scored 20 fast-break points—New Orleans must improve their defensive rebounding.
• Get Zion more post-ups. Williamson was most effective in isolation but settled for too many mid-range jumpers.
• Bench production. Someone besides the starters needs to contribute offensively.

How the Grizzlies Can Build on This

• Keep feeding Bane. He’s their most reliable three-point shooter and closer.
• Exploit small-ball lineups. Jenkins should double down on switch-heavy defenses.
• Monitor Morant’s workload. He played 38 minutes in the opener—managing his stamina will be key.

Where to Watch: The November 15 game will air on ESPN at 8:00 PM ET. Set your reminders—this rivalry is just getting started.

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Final Thoughts: A Preview of Western Conference Drama

The Grizzlies’ third-quarter domination wasn’t just a one-game anomaly—it’s a blueprint for their season. If they can maintain their defensive intensity and get consistent scoring from Bane and Jackson Jr., they’ll be a top-4 seed in the West.

For the Pelicans, the concerns are real but not insurmountable. Zion’s health and the bench’s development will dictate whether they’re a playoff team or a lottery-bound disappointment.

One thing’s certain: this won’t be the last time these two teams deliver a thriller. The NBA season is long, but opening night gave us a taste of the drama, intensity, and star power that’ll define 2024-25.

So, who’s ready for the rematch?

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