Ja Morant is known for his jaw-dropping dunks and dynamic presence with the Memphis Grizzlies, but fans may be doing a double take after seeing Chaunce Jenkins, a promising 22-year-old guard for Seton Hall who resembles Morant both in style and looks. Jenkins, who transferred from Old Dominion after a breakout season averaging 15.9 points per game, has built his reputation as an underdog with Morant-like athleticism, even going viral for a highlight-reel dunk back in high school that landed him on ESPN’s SportsCenter.
Yet, despite the comparisons, Jenkins and Morant aren’t related. Ja Morant has just one sibling, his sister Teniya, an aspiring basketball star herself, who recently received a scholarship to Mississippi Valley State. Basketball talent runs deep in the Morant family. Ja’s mother, Jamie, was a high school point guard and softball standout, while his father, Tee Morant, played with Hall of Famer Ray Allen before giving up his own pro aspirations to focus on raising Ja. Tee trained Ja from a young age, honing his son’s dribbling, shooting, and court vision to prepare him for the spotlight he shines in today.
Jenkins, meanwhile, has charted his own path. After being underutilized at Wichita State, he transferred to Old Dominion, where he blossomed into a high-scoring, explosive guard. Now at Seton Hall, Jenkins aims to continue proving himself, hoping to emulate Morant’s journey from underestimated high schooler to NBA star.
So, is Chaunce Jenkins the next Ja Morant, or just an athlete with a striking resemblance and similar playing style? Only time will tell, but Jenkins has certainly earned his spot in the conversation.
