Ja Morant, Blazers’ Danny Avdia go head-to-head in the heat of the moment

The emphatic victory on the scoreboard wasn’t the only thing heating up the FedExForum on Sunday night. During Memphis Grizzlies‘ dominant 119-96 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, a tense moment in between I Morant and the Blazers are ahead Danny Avdija briefly turned his attention away from the results and according to the intensity of boiling in the field.

The incident occurred midway through the third quarter when Avdia and Grizzlies Cedric Coward collided while fighting for a loose ball. Avdia appeared to trip up Cedric Coward, sending him to the floor, an action the Memphis players felt was unnecessary.

Morant, who was visibly energetic and loud in the final games, wasting no time stepping into Avdia’s space and coming face to face with him.

Danny Advia tripped the Cowards and Ja Morant countered him 👀 pic.twitter.com/PrPkKgrVOC

— BrickCenter (@BrickCenter_) December 8, 2025

Both players exchanged words as teammates ran in to separate them. A stampede broke out, and officials quickly defused the situation before it escalated further.

No technical fouls were awarded, but the moment brought even more physicality to an already intense match.

On the court, the Grizzlies got the job done, improving to 11-13 as they push to return to the Western Conference playoffs.

Santi Aldama led the way with 22 pointswhile rookie Jalen Wells and Caldwell-Pope each added 17. Memphis built momentum early and never allowed Portland to recover.

Meanwhile, Portland, now searching for consistency due to injuries and lineup adjustments, was led by Jerami Grant’s 21 points.

Avdia and Sheddon Sharp each finished with 17, although Avdia’s impressive streak of five consecutive games with at least 25 points, five rebounds and five assists was ended.

As for the heated exchange, Morant downplayed it after the game, calling it “just basketball energy.” Still, the message was clear: Memphis isn’t giving up on physical play or competitive fire.

With momentum building and Morant returning to the lineup, the Grizzlies are now focused on maintaining this lead, on the court and in the standings.

Their next challenge? Carrying this intensity into a tough upcoming stretch that could define their season.