Pelicans Stun Grizzlies in Epic Comeback Led by Saddiq Bey's 36 Points

New Orleans rallies from double-digit deficit in second half to snap three-game skid against Memphis

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:00pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game, with players' movements and the intensity of the game captured through sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant colors, conveying the drama and excitement of the Pelicans' comeback victory.Saddiq Bey's heroic fourth-quarter performance fueled the Pelicans' stunning comeback against the Grizzlies, showcasing the team's resilience and the unpredictable nature of NBA basketball.New Orleans Today

The New Orleans Pelicans overcame a 13-point third-quarter deficit to defeat the Memphis Grizzlies 133-127 in a thrilling NBA matchup on January 23, 2026. Saddiq Bey's explosive 19-point fourth quarter performance, combined with strong efforts from Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson, fueled the Pelicans' comeback victory.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the Pelicans' resilience and ability to exploit mismatches, while raising questions about the Grizzlies' late-game execution and consistency without star guard Ja Morant. The result could mark a turning point for both teams as they jockey for position in the Western Conference playoff race.

The details

Saddiq Bey led the Pelicans with a season-high 36 points, including 19 in the fourth quarter, to power the comeback. Trey Murphy III added 32 points and Zion Williamson contributed 24 points and 11 rebounds, exploiting the Grizzlies' smaller lineup. For Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. had 26 points and 12 rebounds, Jock Landale scored 24 points with 11 rebounds, and Cam Spencer added 21 points on efficient shooting. The Grizzlies led by 13 in the third quarter but couldn't hold off the Pelicans' late surge.

  • The game was played on January 23, 2026.
  • The Pelicans snapped a three-game losing streak with the victory.
  • Ja Morant has been in and out of the Grizzlies' lineup due to a left elbow UCL strain, sparking trade rumors about his future in Memphis.

The players

Saddiq Bey

A forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who scored a season-high 36 points, including 19 in the fourth quarter, to lead his team's comeback victory.

Trey Murphy III

A guard for the New Orleans Pelicans who scored 32 points to support Bey's heroics.

Zion Williamson

A forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who contributed 24 points and 11 rebounds, exploiting mismatches against the Grizzlies' smaller lineup.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A forward for the Memphis Grizzlies who led his team with 26 points and 12 rebounds.

Ja Morant

The star guard for the Memphis Grizzlies who has been in and out of the lineup due to a left elbow UCL strain, sparking trade rumors about his future with the team.

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What they’re saying

“Saddiq Bey's performance in the fourth quarter was truly remarkable. He single-handedly brought the Pelicans back into the game and sealed the victory for them.”

— Alvin Gentry, Head Coach, New Orleans Pelicans

“We had the game in our hands, but we just couldn't close it out. The Pelicans' resilience and Williamson's dominance in the paint were the difference-makers.”

— Taylor Jenkins, Head Coach, Memphis Grizzlies

What’s next

The Pelicans will look to build on this momentum as they continue their three-game road trip in San Antonio on Sunday, while the Grizzlies will host the Denver Nuggets, hoping to rebound from this disappointing loss.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Pelicans' ability to rally from a double-digit deficit and the impact of Saddiq Bey's clutch performance, while also raising concerns about the Grizzlies' late-game execution and consistency without Ja Morant. The result could be a turning point for both teams as they jockey for position in the competitive Western Conference.