Memphis Rookie Jaylen Wells Stretchered Off After Brutal Fall in Grizzlies vs Hornets Matchup
In a heart-stopping moment during Tuesday night’s game between the Memphis Grizzlies and Charlotte Hornets, promising rookie Jaylen Wells was stretchered off the court after suffering a terrifying fall during a breakaway dunk attempt.
The incident took place in the second quarter at the Spectrum Center, where Wells had a clear path to the rim. As he soared for what looked like an easy two points, KJ Simpson, a fellow rookie from the Hornets, collided with Wells mid-air, taking out his legs and sending him crashing onto his back—and possibly his head—in a horizontal fall.
The arena fell into stunned silence as Wells remained motionless on the hardwood. Trainers and medical personnel rushed to his aid, stabilizing his head and neck before he was wheeled off the court on a stretcher. Despite the scare, Wells managed to raise a hand to the crowd while being escorted through the tunnel, a small but encouraging sign of consciousness and mobility.
KJ Simpson Ejected After Flagrant 2
Following a video review, the foul on Simpson was upgraded to a Flagrant 2, defined as “unnecessary and excessive contact,” leading to an automatic ejection. Simpson, visibly shaken, had immediately gone to check on Wells after the collision.
Social media quickly erupted with concern and support for Wells, with posts from Bleacher Report and others asking for prayers and sharing video clips of the incident. The clip showed Wells landing hard after completing what was initially ruled an And-One play.
Injury Update: Wrist Fracture Confirmed
In the second half, Wells’ father, Fred Wells, provided a health update, confirming his son was “awake and alert” but experiencing pain in his jaw, back, and a swollen face. He also mentioned his son had a wrist injury. Later, Shams Charania of ESPN confirmed the wrist was indeed fractured, and Wells would undergo further imaging, including X-rays and a CT scan.
A Rising Star Interrupted
Wells has quickly become one of the best feel-good stories of the 2024-25 NBA season. After a college career split between Sonoma State and Washington State, he was selected 39th overall in the NBA Draft and fought his way into the Grizzlies’ rotation. Known for his defensive intensity and hustle, he’s even garnered attention as a dark horse Rookie of the Year candidate.
For a Memphis team that’s endured its share of adversity this season, Wells has been a rare bright spot. The hope now is that this devastating moment doesn’t impact the trajectory of a career that has just begun to bloom.
