Pelicans End 9-Game Skid, Host Grizzlies in NBA Cup
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The New Orleans Pelicans ended their nine-game losing streak with a commanding 143-130 victory over the Chicago Bulls on November 22, 2025, at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. This marked interim head coach James Borrego's first win since taking over after the dismissal of Willie Green.
The Pelicans, who had been struggling offensively, showcased their scoring prowess by posting season-best totals in the first quarter with 37 points, matching that total in the second quarter, and finishing with 143 overall.
They shot an impressive 51 percent from the field and dominated the boards, particularly on the offensive glass with 19 rebounds. Zion Williamson led the charge with 29 points, including 13 from the free-throw line.
Additionally, Saddiq Bey and Yves Missi contributed double-doubles, with Bey scoring 20 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, while Missi added 14 points and 14 rebounds. Borrego praised his team’s effort, stating, 'You couldn't ask for a better team win when you look at the stat sheet.' The Pelicans are now looking to build on this momentum as they prepare to host the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA Cup group stage on November 26, 2025.
The Grizzlies, entering the matchup with two wins in their last three games, faced a setback after losing to the Denver Nuggets on Monday night. This game was particularly challenging for Memphis, as they were missing star guards Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.
However, second-year big man Zach Edey, who recently returned from an ankle injury, provided a crucial boost for the Grizzlies in previous games, including a double-double of 12 points and 15 rebounds in a win against the Dallas Mavericks.
Unfortunately, Edey suffered a head injury during the game against the Nuggets and did not return after being hit by Nikola Jokic. Rookie Cedric Coward acknowledged Edey's impact on the team's performance, stating, 'Zach is a huge part of what we do, both offensively and defensively.' In Edey's absence, reserve big man Jock Landale stepped up, scoring a career-high 26 points against the Nuggets.
As the Pelicans and Grizzlies face off, the stakes are high for both teams, with New Orleans seeking to regain confidence and Memphis aiming to overcome adversity and secure a win in the NBA Cup.