The Memphis Grizzlies continue to make a strong case to advance to the NBA Playoffs. Led by sophomore Ja Morant, the Grizzlies defeated the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday to secure another critical victory. Morant filled up the numbers with 28 points, eight rebounds, and three assists as the Grizzlies completed a sweep of Damian Lillard and company in their back-to-back schedule.

After the game, as he frequently does, Morant posted his thoughts, highlighted by a few key phrases.

The high-flying Morant seems focused on beating the odds with the Grizzlies. After their latest win, they now hold the eighth seed in the tight Western Conference. They can overtake the struggling Trail Blazers, who have lost five games in a row, if they continue their momentum.

An advantage for Morant and company is that they now have the tiebreaker over the Trail Blazers since they won both games against them. It could be really huge, especially towards the latter part of the regular season.

As for Morant, the reigning Rookie of the Year has been balling in his second year, averaging all-around norms of 19.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. Besides willing the Grizzlies almost every game, the former Murray State standout has also become one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA with the number of highlight dunks and acrobatic plays he’s had throughout the season. 

If the Grizzlies want to continue to climb up the ladder, Ja Morant will have to do some more heavy lifting, especially with a tough road ahead, including a third meeting with the Trail Blazers on Wednesday.