There’s a world where the Memphis Grizzlies walk away with at least one win in their playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. That world might’ve existed if Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant didn’t hit the hardwood with a 27-point lead and the momentum fully on Memphis’ side.
Late in the second quarter, with just under four minutes remaining, Morant elevated for what looked like a highlight-reel dunk. But as he took off, he was undercut by Thunder defender Lu Dort, causing him to crash hard to the floor and ultimately leave the game with a left hip contusion.
The aftermath of the collision quickly drew significant attention. Many felt Dort played dirty on the play, while others believed it was simply an unfortunate collision or a poorly timed leap by Morant. Addressing the controversy directly, Dort denied any intent to injure the Grizzlies star.
“I was slipping. I tried to make a play on the ball, but we just ran into each other, and he fell down. But I hope he’s OK. I didn’t mean to hit him like that.”
“I was slipping. I tried to make a play on the ball, but we just ran into each other, and he fell down. But I hope he’s OK. I didn’t mean to hit him like that.”
Lu Dort on his collision with Ja Morant
(🎥@JoelXLorenzi / h/t @ClutchPoints )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 25, 2025
