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[Saba Sports News] Ja Morant didn’t hold back when reflecting on how the Memphis Grizzlies’ season came to an end.
On Sunday, Morant spoke during his exit interview following Memphis’ playoff elimination at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder. After sharing his thoughts on the season overall, the two-time All-Star was asked specifically about the Grizzlies being swept by OKC.
Morant hesitated at first, admitting he was “scared” to answer because his past comments have sometimes backfired. After a long pause, he gave his response.
“I had them figured out,” Morant said firmly.
He went on to explain that missing the rest of Game 3 due to injury was particularly frustrating.
“Going out, Game 3. Not being able to play was frustrating because that win right there could have made this totally different. I feel like we’d be on our way to OKC, series tied 2-2.”
For at least the first half of Game 3, Morant’s confidence didn’t seem misplaced — the Grizzlies raced out to a 29-point lead and were poised to earn their first win of the series.
But things unraveled quickly after Morant exited with a hip injury late in the second quarter. Without him, Memphis collapsed in historic fashion, losing 114-108. Despite a gritty effort in Game 4, the Grizzlies couldn’t avoid the sweep.
Considering the Thunder had outscored Memphis by a combined 70 points over the first two games, Morant’s claim that they had OKC “figured out” is hard to fully buy. After another early playoff exit, Morant will have to wait until next season to back up his words on the court.