
Wed Feb 25 01:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Dejounte Murray Returns to Pelicans After Year-Long Injury, Reflects on Overcoming Adversity
The Story:
Dejounte Murray, the 29-year-old guard for the New Orleans Pelicans, is set to return to the court on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, after a year-long absence due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. The article chronicles Murray’s journey through a series of personal and professional setbacks, including his mother’s stroke, a broken hand, his uncle’s overdose, and ultimately, the season-ending Achilles injury he sustained in January 2025. Murray reflects on his challenging upbringing in Seattle, marked by poverty, violence, and brushes with the law, and how these experiences have shaped his resilience in the face of adversity.
Murray’s time with the Pelicans was marred by these devastating events which impacted both on and off court performance. He emphasizes the importance of mental toughness, gratitude, and finding meaning beyond basketball, highlighting his determination to prove his doubters wrong and inspire others to overcome their own obstacles.
Key Points:
- Dejounte Murray suffered a season-ending ruptured Achilles tendon in January 2025, sidelining him for a year.
- Prior to the injury, Murray experienced a series of personal hardships, including his mother’s stroke and his uncle’s overdose.
- Murray reflects on his difficult childhood in Seattle, marked by poverty, violence, and juvenile detention.
- He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, gratitude, and finding meaning beyond basketball.
- Murray is probable to return on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, for the Pelicans’ game against the Golden State Warriors.
Key Takeaways:
- Adversity can be a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery.
- Mental toughness and resilience are crucial for overcoming challenges, both on and off the court.
- Finding meaning and purpose beyond professional success can provide a sense of perspective and fulfillment.
- Athletes, despite their fame and fortune, are still human beings with personal struggles and vulnerabilities.
- Dejounte Murray’s comeback story is one of perseverance and determination, inspiring others to overcome their own obstacles.