Kofi Inkoom
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant is eagerly anticipating his return to the court for the 2024/25 season. However, he’ll need to be patient a bit longer as he awaits clearance following right shoulder surgery, per Da Michael Cole of Memphis Commercial Appeal.
In January, Morant underwent surgery to repair a labral tear. The Grizzlies’ star expressed his readiness to return to action.
“I hate being around basketball and not being able to play,” Morant said. “I don’t got too much longer. I can wait to make sure I’m able to play and be cleared when the season comes.”
Last season, Morant played only nine games for Memphis. After a 25-game suspension at the beginning of the season, he suffered an injury in early January that sidelined him for the rest of the year.
The two-time All-Star and former Most Improved Player only managed to play nine games before a shoulder injury cut his season short. He was pleased with the positive response to his youth camp, the first he’s hosted since his legal troubles came to light.
“A camp like this, the turnout made it better to show how much support I still have and people are still fans of me,” Morant said. “It’s just one of those moments where you kind of look at yourself and be proud.”
- Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer reports that the Memphis Grizzlies, who have the 9th overall draft pick, are actively seeking big men, with UConn’s Donovan Clingan being a potential target if they trade up. However, sources indicate that Memphis is also considering the possibility of trading down in the draft.
- While the Grizzlies are firm on keeping Marcus Smart, Fischer’s sources reveal that there is significant interest in Luke Kennard in trade discussions. It’s noted that the team has a $14.7 million option on Kennard for the 2024/25 season.