Yardbarker
x
Forget Victor Wembanyama, Memphis Grizzlies star had twice as many blocks in NBA season debut
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images

Forget Victor Wembanyama, Memphis Grizzlies star had twice as many blocks in NBA season debut

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Luca Rosano  |  Last updated Oct 23, 2025 7:12 PM ET

The Memphis Grizzlies won their season home opener against the New Orleans Pelicans in an exciting game.

The New Orleans Pelicans got out to an early lead and led by as many as 15.

However, the Memphis Grizzlies came back as they were led by Ja Morant who scored 35 points.

Seven players finished in double figures for the Grizzlies, who opened up their season on the right note.

Jaren Jackson Jr. was a shot blocking machine for the Memphis Grizzlies

Jaren Jackson Jr. was one of the players for the Grizzlies who scored in double figures.

He finished the game with an impressive stat line of 18 points, 8 rebounds and 6 blocks in just 27 minutes of action because he fouled out.

He was back in his Defensive Player of the Year form and had an impressive game that may have gotten overshadowed by Victor Wembanyama’s dominance over the Dallas Mavericks.

Many people are quick to anoint Victor Wembanyama as the best defender in the league, but Jackson Jr. proved he will have a great chance to upstage Wembanyama and win that award.

Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

Ja Morant gets off to a strong start to the season

Morant suited up for the Grizzlies after missing the entire preseason schedule due to an ankle injury.

After a couple of down years, the Grizzlies are aiming to have a bounce back season for the 2025-26 campaign.

For the Grizzlies to endure success this season they need their star point guard Morant to stay healthy.

Morant got off to a strong start this season with his game-high 35 points and hopefully for the Grizzlies it will be an All-Star season for him.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.