A thrilling NBA encounter took place on January 14, 2026, as the New Orleans Pelicans narrowly defeated the Brooklyn Nets, 116-113. This game was a rollercoaster of emotions and showcased the best of NBA basketball.
Trey Murphy III, with an impressive 34-point performance, led the Pelicans to their second win in 13 games. Saddiq Bey, who contributed 12 points, was the hero in the final minutes, tying the game with a crucial three-pointer and then converting an offensive rebound into a powerful dunk. He sealed the deal with two free throws, leaving the Nets just short of a comeback.
Zion Williamson added 25 points for the Pelicans, while Yves Missi's double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds) was instrumental in the team's success. The Pelicans' second-chance points, a whopping 33, were a key factor in their victory.
But here's where it gets controversial: Egor Demin, who scored 17 points and hit five 3-pointers for the Nets, gave his team a late lead with a clutch three. However, Bey's response, tying the game with his own three-pointer, shifted the momentum back to the Pelicans. And this is the part most people miss: Bey's offensive rebound and subsequent dunk, after grabbing a long rebound on Murphy's missed three, was a game-changer.
The Nets, led by Michael Porter Jr.'s 20 points, fought hard but ultimately fell short. Drake Powell and Day'Ron Sharpe also contributed with 16 and 15 points, respectively, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.
The Pelicans' resilience was evident as they chipped away at the Nets' early lead. After trailing by 12, they fought back and took a slim lead into halftime. The game remained tight throughout, with the score tied at 87 going into the fourth quarter.
Despite the Nets' strong start to the final period, the Pelicans responded with a 15-4 run, showcasing their determination and teamwork. Murphy's nine points during this run were crucial, and his assist to Karlo Matkovic's dunk was the exclamation point on a remarkable comeback.
So, what do you think? Was this game a testament to the Pelicans' resilience, or did the Nets' late surge fall just short? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! The NBA never fails to deliver, and this game is a perfect example of why we love this sport so much.
