Ja Morant’s Triumphant Return to the Hardwood

Rediscovering Joy and Focus

Memphis Grizzlies’ star point guard, Ja Morant, is not seeking validation from anyone, nor is he holding on to his past struggles. After a challenging couple of years, the skilled athlete is thrilled to be back on the court. “At the moment, my happiness is my main priority,” Morant expressed on Monday. “A joyful Ja can be intimidating for many. As long as I’m content and healthy, the season will be successful.”

Morant’s journey from being a No. 2 overall draft pick to becoming a key figure of both the Grizzlies and the NBA, and then his rapid descent due to suspensions and injuries, has been a rollercoaster ride. Now fully recovered from a shoulder injury and suspension that sidelined him for most of the previous season, Morant has taken his experiences on and off the court as valuable lessons.

Redemption On the Court

Morant believes that his return as the fearless and high-flying point guard could be the redemption arc that he, the Grizzlies, and even the NBA need. “I want to remember how each experience made me feel, regardless of the circumstances,” Morant stated. “I believe it has significantly contributed to my growth. Currently, I feel more content than I have in a long time.”

From winning the 2020 NBA Rookie of the Year to becoming the 2022 Most Improved Player, Morant has played a pivotal role in securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference for Memphis in consecutive seasons.

Off-Court Challenges

However, his dazzling on-court prowess was overshadowed by off-court issues. A suspension for flashing a gun on social media and a subsequent incident cost him a significant part of the previous season. Despite these setbacks, Morant returned to the court in December, vowing to prove his growth through his performance. He played only nine games, averaging 25.1 points and driving Memphis to a 6-3 record before a shoulder injury ended his season prematurely.

During Morant’s absence, the Grizzlies managed a 27-55 record and drafted Zach Edey, the two-time AP Player of the Year from Purdue, ninth overall. Morant resumed practice in the summer and began training with his new teammate.

A Fresh Start

Morant’s commitment to bouncing back was evident in a new commercial for his Ja 2 shoe by Nike, one of the sponsors who stood by him during his tough times. The ad’s theme? Rising after a fall.

His teammates have witnessed Morant’s dedication throughout the summer, particularly in his collaboration with Edey on the court. Grizzlies’ Coach Taylor Jenkins has been impressed by Morant’s renewed focus and joy. “Basketball is his love and was taken away from him,” Jenkins said. “He has more to contribute to the game, to the team, and that’s his mindset. And I love seeing it thrive.”

Guard Desmond Bane noted Morant’s physical and game readiness and his growing leadership. “He’s always commanded the gym, and people pay attention every time he speaks,” Bane said. The anticipation is high for Morant’s return to the court, where everyone is eager to see him perform once again.