Ja Morant aims to clear ‘bad guy’ image after Portland Trail Blazers trade
Two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant says his off-season trade to the Portland Trail Blazers offers a “fresh start” to clear up misconceptions about his character.
The 26-year-old spoke publicly on Saturday for the first time since his June move from the Memphis Grizzlies.
Addressing reporters at the Las Vegas Summer League, the former second overall draft pick expressed a clear desire to move past his previous controversies.
“I’ve done what I’ve done in the past, but it’s been addressed and handled already,” he stated.
“I get to show the fans in Portland a different Ja. It’s like starting all over again.”
Turbulent final years in Memphis
Morant spent seven seasons in Tennessee, leading the Grizzlies to four play-off appearances.
However, his tenure was overshadowed by disciplinary issues, including two significant league suspensions in 2023.
He served bans of eight and 25 games after displaying a firearm on social media livestreams.
A further one-game suspension followed in November after a heated altercation with Memphis coach Tuomas Iisalo.
A crowded Portland backcourt
Portland acquired the South Carolina native in exchange for forwards Jerami Grant and Kris Murray.
He joins a heavily stocked guard rotation featuring Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
Despite the fierce competition for minutes, the new arrival confirmed he is willing to either start or come off the bench.
The explosive playmaker was restricted to just 20 appearances last season due to injury, averaging 19.5 points and 8.1 assists.
He insists his body now “feels great” after spending the past four months getting into peak physical condition.
Embracing the Pacific Northwest
Already familiar with Oregon through his endorsement deals with Nike, the former college standout is embracing his new surroundings.
“I don’t know if you all have been paying attention to me lately, but I’ve been kind of into nature,” he explained.
“I’m not hiking, but I go walking, ride a bike, I’ve been kayaking.”
“Just being grateful for being alive and the things I do have and my family. And to now have a fresh start. It’s just mind clearing.”