Ja Morant Delivers Statement Game - and Message - in London
There’s been plenty of noise swirling around Ja Morant lately - trade rumors, questions about his future in Memphis, and the usual speculation that comes with a star player navigating a turbulent season. But on Sunday in London, Morant didn’t just quiet the chatter - he took the mic and dropped the beat himself.
In front of an international crowd at the NBA London Games, Morant put on one of his most complete performances of the season, leading the Memphis Grizzlies to a 126-109 win over the Orlando Magic. It wasn’t just the numbers - though they were impressive - it was the control, the pace, and the unmistakable presence of a player who knows exactly who he is and where he wants to be.
Back in Action, Back in Command
After missing six games, Morant wasted no time reasserting himself. He came out with purpose, dictating tempo and carving up Orlando’s defense with surgical precision. By halftime, he had already dropped 20 points and 10 assists - without a single turnover - helping Memphis build a commanding 33-point lead before the Magic could even settle in.
He finished the night with 24 points and 13 assists, hitting 3-of-4 from beyond the arc and looking every bit like the franchise cornerstone Memphis has built around. More importantly, he helped the Grizzlies avoid a repeat of their earlier stumble in Berlin, when a big lead slipped away late. This time, Morant made sure the grip stayed firm.
“I’m a Very Loyal Guy”
After the game, Morant addressed the trade rumors head-on - no dodging, no vague answers. When asked about his long-term future with the Grizzlies, he didn’t hesitate.
“Everybody in here who knows me, knows I’m a very loyal guy,” Morant said. “I got a logo on my back, and that should tell you where I want to be.”
That “logo” is a tattoo of the Grizzlies emblem - a permanent symbol of his connection to Memphis. And in case there was any doubt, Morant made it clear: this isn’t just a business relationship.
It’s personal. He’s invested in the city, the team, and the journey they’re still on together.
While speculation has bubbled up across the league, there’s been no real movement behind the scenes. No active trade talks.
No traction. Just noise - and Morant seems more than ready to drown it out with his play.
Finding Rhythm on the Global Stage
Beyond the box score, Morant spoke about what the game - and the setting - meant to him. Playing overseas, in front of fans who don’t get to see NBA stars up close very often, clearly resonated.
“Just being able to play basketball is very therapeutic for me,” he said. “I know what I’m capable of, and I was able to show that tonight and see the love from people I’m meeting for the first time.
It was big time. Just walking off and representing Memphis is what it’s all about.”
There was a sense of perspective in his words - a recognition of the platform he has, and the pride he takes in using it to represent his team and his city. That kind of mindset matters, especially for a team trying to find its footing in a challenging season.
A Spark the Grizzlies Needed
Sunday’s win was just Memphis’ third in its last 10 games - a tough stretch that’s seen the team struggle with consistency and availability. But with Morant back in the mix, the offense flowed differently.
The energy was different. The confidence looked like it was starting to return.
“That’s just credit to coach putting us in the best spots possible and then just me being Ja and wind up making the right play whether it’s passing or scoring,” Morant said. “We got into a great rhythm early, got a big lead, after that it’s just managing.”
This is year three of Morant’s five-year, $197.2 million contract. He’s earning around $39.4 million this season, and through 19 games, he’s averaging 19.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in just under 29 minutes per night. The shooting numbers - 40.7% from the field, 23.5% from deep - still have room to climb, but he’s been lights out from the line at 89%.
Message Sent - and Received
Make no mistake: this wasn’t just a strong performance. It was a statement. Morant reminded everyone what he brings to the floor - explosiveness, vision, leadership - and just as importantly, he reminded them where his heart is.
For a team that’s been searching for stability, that message might be just as valuable as the win itself.