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Morant Says He's Grateful for Memphis as He Tries to Show Portland 'a Different Ja'
Morant said he wants to show Portland a different version of himself after a trade that sent him from Memphis last month.
On Saturday, Portland Trail Blazers guard Ja Morant addressed reporters at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, declaring his intent to "start fresh" following his June trade from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Two 2023 gun-related suspensions and a 2025-26 season limited to 20 games due to injuries complicated the two-time NBA All-Star's tenure in Memphis, reducing his market value.
Portland acquired the 26-year-old in a trade sending Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to Memphis, pairing Morant with veteran guards Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday.
Head coach Micah Nori told The Athletic he expects the "best version of Ja," noting Morant expressed maturity and renewed commitment to winning basketball in Portland.
Morant, familiar with the Pacific Northwest through Nike visits, stated he feels "more mature" and ready to prove his "bad guy" image is a misconception with the Blazers.