Grizzlies star expected to miss game against Spurs

On By Littum

SAN ANTONIO — Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant is unlikely to play against San Antonio Spurs Friday, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said.

Morant, who is dealing with right foot soreness, was listed as questionable on Thursday’s injury report ahead of a nationally televised contest against the Spurs. He was officially ruled out by the Grizzlies a little more than an hour before tipoff.

Morant tested the ankle out Friday morning and gave it another try during warmups, Jenkins said.

“He’s been nursing a sprained foot since the Houston home game,” Jenkins said. “Last game against Spurs he got tangled up, had a little collision there with a Spurs player which really made it worse.”

Morant finished with 21 points and 12 assists in Wednesday’s win against the Spurs.

Morant will miss his 18th game of the season, making him ineligible to receive regular season NBA awards. Players must be active in at least 65 games to qualify.

The Grizzlies (26-15) have a 10-7 record when Morant is unavailable this season. Scotty Pippen Jr., Desmond Bane and Luke Kennard are among the players expected to work as primary ball handlers.

Damichael Cole is the one Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at [email protected]. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.