The San Antonio Spurs battled back from an early deficit behind Victor Wembanyama's strong defensive outing, but ultimately couldn't finish the job in the first of two straight matchups against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Ja Morant had 21 points and 12 assists to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a 129-115 win over the San Antonio Spurs.

The 7-foot-4 phenom faces criticism for spending too much time on the perimeter, but San Antonio is letting him do it all to maximize his potential as the NBA’s next great big man.

The Grizzlies were led by star point guard Ja Morant, who posted a strong double-double with 21 points and 12 assists, shooting an efficient 9-13 from the field. Morant posted a team-high +22, being a true difference-maker in the competitive divisional matchup.

Memphis Grizzlies rookie center Zach Edey dunked on Victor Wembanyama in the first quarter on Wednesday night.

Despite being in the sophomore season of his NBA career, Victor Wembanyama is already being groomed as the next face of the league. For what it's worth, Wemby has all the ingredients to fulfill that role. He is a talented scorer and defender who is already adding wins for the San Antonio Spurs.

Ja Morant had 21 points and 12 assists to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a 129-115 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. Desmond Bane scored 21 points, Santi Aldama

The Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs are facing off for the first time this NBA season. Follow along for live updates.

Zach Edey drops the hammer, with the Grizzlies center throwing down a monster jam over Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant completed a dunk that didn't count over Spurs star Victor Wembanyama on Wednesday night.

Not many players would try and dunk over Victor Wembanyama. You have to catch him at the right angle, maybe with his head turned, to have any chance to get something by the NBA's leading shot blocker.