Ja Morant Rejects NBA’s Next Face Title Despite Buzz

Ja Morant, the star guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, has distanced himself from the notion of becoming the next face of the NBA. Despite being a frontrunner in discussions about future NBA leaders, Morant expressed a lack of interest in such a title.

Morant’s Perspective on NBA Leadership

In a recent interview with The Athletic, Morant stated, “I never did for real. Honestly.” His remarks come ahead of a game against the Golden State Warriors, a matchup he enjoys, particularly because of the challenge posed by veteran guard Stephen Curry.

The 26-year-old has made a significant impact since his NBA debut in 2019, where he was chosen as the second overall pick. He earned the Rookie of the Year award and became an All-Star in both 2022 and 2023. However, Morant’s rise has been accompanied by off-court challenges.

Suspensions and Challenges

Morant faced an eight-game suspension in March 2023 after displaying a handgun during an Instagram Live session. In addition, he received a 25-game suspension to start the 2023-24 season for similar conduct. These incidents have affected his reputation and led to reduced discussions about his potential as a prominent NBA figure.

Peer Recognition

Despite these setbacks, players like Curry and Kevin Durant recognize Morant’s talents. Curry noted that the NBA naturally identifies its future leaders, stating, “That stuff takes care of itself.” He mentioned players like Ja Morant and others, emphasizing the importance of being great ambassadors for the sport.

• Ja Morant: Memphis Grizzlies star, interested in personal growth over public roles.
• Stephen Curry: Valued mentor and competitor, provides a challenge to Morant.
• Kevin Durant: Respected peer acknowledging Morant’s contributions to the game.

Goals for the Future

When asked about his future goals, Morant emphasized being the best version of himself. “Just be the best Ja I can be,” he expressed. He acknowledged that while he might not be perfect, he consistently seeks growth both on and off the court.

Morant’s confidence in his game remains strong, reinforcing his belief that he can still excel as a player, independent of being labeled as the face of the NBA.