Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant returned to action Saturday against the Philadelphia 76ers after an eight-game absence due to a left ankle sprain, the Grizzlies announced, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

The reigning NBA Rookie of the Year suffered the injury on Dec. 28 against the Brooklyn Nets. He was initially expected to miss three-to-five weeks.

Morant averaged 26.3 points and 6.3 assists on 55% shooting in his first three games this season. The Grizzlies are 5-6 entering Saturday's contest.