Ja Morant traded to Portland Trail Blazers, ending his seven-year stint with the Memphis Grizzlies.
What happened?
Ja Morant, the 26-year-old former Memphis Grizzlies star point guard, was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers on June 29 in exchange for forwards Kris Murray and Jerami Grant. This move came after Morant spent his first seven seasons in Memphis. He spoke publicly to the media about the change for the first time on July 11 while attending the NBA Summer League games in Las Vegas and sporting his new Blazers gear.
"I'm super excited," he said. "Excited to be in Portland, ready to get started there. Definitely grateful for my time in Memphis. That will always be home for me. It's time to get to work now."
Why it matters for Ja Morant
Morant's departure from Memphis was not unexpected, given the team's decision to listen to trade offers for him in January. Despite his willingness to stay in Memphis, the team ultimately decided to move him. Morant has faced several challenges in his career, including suspensions and injuries. He received multiple suspensions in 2023 stemming from social media videos that showed him brandishing guns. He played nine games in the 2023-24 season and 50 in 2024-25.
What comes next?
Morant is looking forward to a new start in Portland, where he will wear the number 1 jersey, a change from his number 12 jersey in Memphis. He expressed his gratitude for his time in Memphis and acknowledged the "tough love" he received from the team. Morant is eager to show the fans in Portland a different side of himself and is ready to get to work.
"I get to show the fans in Portland a different Ja," Morant said. "It's like starting all over again."
Addressing past controversies
Morant also addressed the controversies that have surrounded him in the past. He acknowledged that he has made mistakes, but emphasized that they have been addressed and handled. He expressed frustration that these issues continue to be brought up years later, despite his efforts to move forward.
"I've done what I've done in the past, but it's been addressed and handled already," Morant said. "I don't see why years later that's still the topic when nothing's happened since."
A new chapter in Portland
Morant is excited to start a new chapter in his career in Portland. He is looking forward to working with his new teammates and coaches and is eager to contribute to the team's success. With his new jersey and a fresh start, Morant is ready to take on the challenges of the NBA and prove himself as a valuable player.
"Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.