Pelicans' Dejounte Murray Drops Raptors' Jamal Shead in Highlight Moment

Murray's emphatic shot and celebration over Shead goes viral on social media.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 2:56pm

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In a recent game between the New Orleans Pelicans and Toronto Raptors, Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray hit a clutch shot over Raptors defender Jamal Shead and then stood over him in celebration, creating a highlight-reel moment that has gone viral online.

Why it matters

The incident showcases Murray's scoring ability and competitive spirit as he helps lead the Pelicans' late-season push, even as the team has struggled for much of the year. It also sparks discussion around sportsmanship and on-court celebrations in the NBA.

The details

With the game on the line, Murray drove to the basket and hit a tough shot over Shead, then stood over the fallen Raptors player in a taunting celebration. The image of Murray standing triumphantly over Shead has been widely shared and discussed on social media.

  • The incident occurred during the Pelicans' March 12, 2026 game against the Raptors.

The players

Dejounte Murray

A guard for the New Orleans Pelicans who has helped provide a scoring boost for the team down the stretch of the season.

Jamal Shead

A defender for the Toronto Raptors who was on the receiving end of Murray's highlight play.

Darko Rajakovic

The head coach of the Toronto Raptors, who commented on the incident after the game.

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What they’re saying

“I don't give it too much over there. Guys are competitive. It was probably over the board, what he did there. I got to see it on film. But I don't want to make anything more than it is.”

— Darko Rajakovic, Toronto Raptors Head Coach

What’s next

The Pelicans and Raptors are not scheduled to play each other again this season, but the viral moment could add some extra intensity if the teams meet in the playoffs.

The takeaway

Dejounte Murray's highlight play and celebration against the Raptors showcases his scoring ability and competitive fire, which the struggling Pelicans will need as they try to finish the season strong. However, the incident also raises questions about sportsmanship and on-court taunting in the NBA.