Ja Morant turned 26 years old in 2025, and this is a pivotal NBA season for the Memphis Grizzlies superstar. Morant came into the league as the No. 2 overall pick in 2019 with high expectations. He was named an All-Star twice in his third and fourth seasons, but then his career took a turn.
With gun scandals off the court and other disciplinary issues, Morant missed 33 games through suspension in 2023. When he returned, a shoulder injury caused him to miss most of the 23-24 season. He played 50 games last campaign, but his numbers aren’t what they were early in his career anymore.
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For someone once considered a potential ‘face of the NBA’, Morant’s career so far has been disappointing. But speaking recently about the issue, Ja made his position quite clear.
“I never did for real,” Morant told The Athletic when asked about the topic. “There’s a lot that comes with that. I play basketball for the love of the game, not to be the face of the NBA. Obviously, I hear that a lot. I don’t put no pressure on it.
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Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant warms up before the start of the game against the Golden State Warriors. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
“I just go out and just play my game. Me pretty much just going out there and doing that had me in those conversations. Obviously, people have their own opinions, but I really don’t care for it too much.”
Morant has begun this season averaging 22.3 points and 6.5 assists per game in his first four games. The Grizzlies have a 2-2 record, nothing spectacular. Nearly no fan or analyst expects them to be much of a threat in the Western Conference either. Unless Morant explodes once again this season, he’ll get his wish of never becoming one of the faces of the league.
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