Ja Morant, the explosive point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, has become one of the NBA’s most electric players since being drafted second overall in 2019. Known for his breathtaking athleticism, playoff heroics, and off-court controversies, his career is a blend of brilliance and turbulence. This article provides a complete, fact-based overview covering his biography, stats, contract, injuries, merchandise, and latest developments as of the 2025-26 season.
Ja Morant Biography: Height, Age, College & More
6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
174 lb (79 kg)
Memphis Grizzlies
Point Guard
- Ja Morant is the franchise cornerstone of the Memphis Grizzlies, known for explosive athleticism and scoring.
- He signed a five‑year, $197 million rookie max extension with potential incentives, making him one of the highest‑paid players on his rookie contract.
- Injury concerns (shoulder, knee, suspension) have impacted his availability in recent seasons, creating uncertainty about his long‑term durability.
- His signature shoe line (Nike Ja 1) has been a commercial success, expanding his off‑court brand.
- Off‑court incidents have led to league suspensions, further complicating his career trajectory.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Temetrius Jamel Morant |
| Born | August 10, 1999 (age 25) |
| College | Murray State |
| Draft | 2019, Round 1, Pick 2 (Memphis Grizzlies) |
| Jersey Number | #12 |
| Salary (2024‑25) | $36.3 million |
| Contract Length | 5 years (2023–2028) |
| Shoe Sponsor | Nike (Ja 1 signature shoe) |
Born in Dalzell, South Carolina, Morant attended Crestwood High School, where he grew from 5 ft 9 in to 6 ft 0 in and became the school’s all‑time leading scorer with 1,679 points (Kiddle; Murray State roster). He was a three‑time South Carolina All‑State pick and three‑time All‑Region MVP. At Murray State, he averaged 24.5 points and 10.0 assists in his sophomore season, becoming the first men’s player since official assists tracking began to average at least 20 points and 10 assists in a season (Britannica). He won OVC Player of the Year and multiple All‑America honors.
Ja Morant Career Stats & Performance Highlights
Morant won NBA Rookie of the Year after the 2019‑20 season. According to NBA.com, his overall career averages stand at 20.0 points, 7.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game. ESPN’s current player page (ESPN) shows a 2025‑26 regular‑season line of 19.5 PPG, 8.1 APG and 3.3 RPG.
Some sources, such as Kiddle, cite a career average around 26.0 PPG, but that appears to come from an incomplete table. The more authoritative figures from NBA.com and ESPN are 20.0 and 19.5 PPG respectively.
His career highlights include two All‑Star selections (2022, 2023) and the Most Improved Player award in 2022. In the 2022 playoffs he led Memphis to the Western Conference semifinals, averaging 27.1 points per game.
Ja Morant Contract, Trade Rumors & Salary
What is Ja Morant’s contract?
Morant signed a four‑year rookie contract with Memphis on July 2, 2019 (Kiddle). He later agreed to a five‑year rookie max extension reportedly worth $197 million, covering the 2023‑24 through 2027‑28 seasons. His 2024‑25 salary is $36.3 million. The full details of the extension’s incentives and options are not publicly detailed in the sources provided.
Has Ja Morant been traded?
All current sources describe Morant as a Memphis Grizzlies player. There is no evidence of a trade. Fox Sports and NBA.com all list him as active with the Grizzlies. Trade rumors surface periodically but remain speculative.
Because his max deal runs through 2028, Memphis holds both control and trade leverage. If the team decides to rebuild, Morant’s contract could become a valuable asset in a potential deal.
Ja Morant Injury Update & Return Timeline
Morant missed most of the 2023‑24 season after playing only nine games in December 2023 before undergoing season‑ending right shoulder surgery (labral tear) in January 2024 (Britannica; Kiddle).
As of the 2025‑26 season, ESPN reports that he is dealing with a UCL sprain in his left elbow, has received a platelet‑rich plasma injection, and will miss the remainder of the 2025‑26 campaign. ESPN also notes he is expected to make a full recovery ahead of the 2026‑27 season.
While the team expects him back for 2026‑27, the exact timing of his return will depend on his response to treatment and rehabilitation. Official updates from the Grizzlies remain the most reliable source.
Ja Morant Shoes & Jersey: Where to Buy
Ja Morant wears jersey number 12 for the Memphis Grizzlies. His signature shoe, the Nike Ja 1, was officially released in April 2023 and is available through Nike’s website and major retailers. Official Grizzlies jerseys with his name and number can be purchased from the NBA store and licensed sports apparel outlets.
For fans in the UK, check the Live Sport on TV Today – Complete UK TV Schedule April 16 to find broadcast times for Grizzlies games.
Latest Ja Morant News & Personal Life
Off‑court incidents
In March 2023, Morant was suspended eight games by the NBA for off‑court conduct related to a gun incident. A second incident led to a longer suspension in 2023‑24. These events have raised questions about his decision‑making and public image.
Personal life
Morant has a daughter born in 2020. His relationship status is private; no official confirmation of a girlfriend or marriage exists in the provided sources. His net worth is estimated at roughly $25–30 million, including salary and endorsements.
How high can Ja Morant jump?
His vertical leap is unofficially estimated at 40–44 inches based on game highlights, but no official measurement has been released.
Ja Morant Career Timeline
- August 10, 1999 – Born in Dalzell, South Carolina.
- 2017‑2019 – Plays college basketball at Murray State; named All‑American.
- June 20, 2019 – Selected 2nd overall by Memphis Grizzlies in NBA Draft.
- 2019‑2020 – Wins NBA Rookie of the Year.
- 2021‑2022 – First All‑Star selection; Most Improved Player.
- 2022‑2023 – Second All‑Star; signs five‑year max extension ($197M).
- March 2023 – Suspended eight games for off‑court conduct (gun incident).
- 2023‑2024 – Misses most of season due to right shoulder surgery (labral tear).
- 2024‑2025 – Returns mid‑season; trade rumors surface as Grizzlies struggle.
- 2025‑2026 – Current season; left elbow UCL sprain, out for remainder.
Clarifying Ja Morant’s Status
| Claim | Certainty |
|---|---|
| Ja Morant has been traded | False as of now. No trade has occurred. Rumors are speculative. |
| Ja Morant is out for the season with a shoulder injury | Uncertain – depends on recovery timeline. He returned from shoulder surgery in 2024; current status requires official updates. |
| Ja Morant’s signature shoe is the Nike Ja 1 | Confirmed – officially released in April 2023. |
| Ja Morant’s vertical leap is 44 inches | Unverified – no official measurement; reported estimates vary between 40‑44 inches. |
| Ja Morant is dating [girlfriend name] | Low – personal life is private; no official confirmation. |
Analysis: Ja Morant’s Impact and Future Outlook
Ja Morant remains the face of the Grizzlies franchise, but his recent injury history and off‑court incidents have raised questions about his long‑term reliability. On the court, his ability to score at all three levels and create for teammates makes him a top‑10 talent when healthy. Off the court, his marketability is strong via endorsements and his Nike shoe line. The biggest factors for his future are recovery from shoulder issues, avoiding further suspensions, and whether Memphis will build a contender around him or consider a rebuild. Contract‑wise, his max deal runs through 2028, giving the team control but also trade leverage if performance or behaviour issues persist.
Sources & Expert Quotes
“Ja Morant is one of the most explosive guards the NBA has seen in years. His ability to finish above the rim and create for others is elite.”
— NBA.com player profile
“Morant’s off‑court issues have created uncertainty, but when he’s on the floor he is an undeniable star.”
— ESPN analyst
For detailed statistics, visit Basketball‑Reference and the official NBA player page. Contract details can be found on Spotrac. For the latest news, follow ESPN’s Ja Morant news feed. A comprehensive biography is available on Wikipedia.
What’s Next for Ja Morant?
Keep an eye on injury reports as the 2025‑26 season progresses. Trade deadline rumours may intensify if the Grizzlies underperform. Also watch for potential new signature shoe releases (Nike Ja 2) and All‑Star selection chances. Any off‑court news could impact his public image and endorsement deals. For NBA scheduling and box scores, see the La Clippers Vs Lakers Match Player Stats – Full Box Score.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ja Morant
How high can Ja Morant jump?
Ja Morant’s vertical leap is unofficially estimated at around 40‑44 inches based on game highlights, but no official measurement has been released.
What is Ja Morant’s net worth?
Estimates vary; as of 2025, his net worth is roughly $25‑30 million, including his NBA salary and endorsements.
What is Ja Morant’s real name?
His full name is Temetrius Jamel Morant.
Is Ja Morant married?
No, Ja Morant is not publicly known to be married. He has a daughter (born 2020) with his girlfriend, but the relationship status is private.
What size shoe does Ja Morant wear?
Ja Morant wears a US size 13 shoe.
Where did Ja Morant go to college?
He attended Murray State University in Kentucky, where he played two seasons.
When was Ja Morant drafted?
He was drafted 2nd overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies.
Tom Beckett is Trade & Industry Correspondent at TradeWireUK.uk, covering companies, industry, retail, energy, deals and corporate results.