Ja Morant vows to reclaim his electrifying form as the new NBA season nears
The Memphis Grizzlies’ star point guard, Ja Morant, is setting the stage for a triumphant return as the upcoming NBA season approaches. After a year marked by adjustments and challenges, Morant is eager to reintroduce the dynamic playing style that made him a fan favorite and a league standout.
The Rise of Ja Morant
Since being drafted second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Morant has been at the heart of the Grizzlies’ ambitions to build a championship contender. His contributions have been pivotal, leading the team to back-to-back seasons with over 50 wins, earning the No. 2 seed during both campaigns. Despite the team’s postseason struggles, the memories of those thrilling victories under Morant’s leadership linger in the minds of Grizzlies fans.
During the 2021-22 season, Morant’s statistics showcased his explosive talent: he averaged an impressive 27.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, all while maintaining shooting splits of 49.3% from the field, 34.4% from three-point range, and 76.1% from the free-throw line. His performance not only earned him a seventh-place finish in the MVP voting but also landed him on the All-NBA Second Team and secured the title of Most Improved Player of the Year. That season, Morant seemed ready to take on any defender, often soaring for highlight-reel dunks that electrified fans and teammates alike.
A Shift in Play Style
However, the following season saw a noticeable shift in Morant’s approach. He became more cautious, opting to tone down his trademark dunks. In a candid admission following a December game against the Dallas Mavericks, he remarked, “I’m not trying to dunk at all. Y’all think I’m lying. I’m dead serious.” This change raised questions among fans and analysts alike: would the Grizzlies see the same explosive Morant that had dazzled the league just a season prior?
Signs of a Comeback
As the 2024-25 season progressed, particularly after a significant coaching change within the organization, glimpses of the old Morant began to resurface. The latter part of the season showcased his return to form, igniting hope among Grizzlies fans that the high-flying, aggressive player who once dominated the court was on the verge of making a full comeback.
Looking Ahead
With the new season fast approaching, Morant is determined to reignite his impactful style of play. His commitment to returning to form not only reflects his personal ambitions but also serves as a rallying cry for the Grizzlies organization and its passionate fan base. As anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Morant to see if he can once again electrify the court and propel the Grizzlies toward their championship aspirations.
