The Memphis Grizzlies haven’t had the season they imagined-not even close. A team once expected to be firmly in the top six of the Western Conference standings now finds itself clawing just to stay in the play-in mix.
The optics? Messy.
The noise? Unavoidable.
But inside the locker room, the message is clear: this group isn’t splintering. If anything, the bond is tightening-and Ja Morant is still very much a part of that.
While Morant’s impact hasn’t been felt on the court, his presence looms large from the sidelines. He’s been vocal, animated, and-true to form-unapologetically supportive. Whether it’s celebrating a Jaren Jackson Jr. highlight with a dance or chiming in like a coach during timeouts, Morant’s role has shifted, but his influence hasn’t faded.
“(Morant) is like that all the time, really,” Jackson Jr. said. “He wants us to thrive and do well.
He is one of my biggest cheerleaders for sure. One of my best coaches, too, at times.”
That kind of public backing says a lot-especially coming from Jackson Jr., the reigning 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year and the face of the franchise during Morant’s absence. He could’ve distanced himself, played it safe, or kept things vague. Instead, he’s doubling down on their connection, reinforcing that this is still Ja’s team as much as it is his.
And the vibe on the bench? It’s not just for show. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo sees it as a reflection of something deeper.
“It’s dope,” Iisalo said. “Because you always have to look at the bench when you do something.
(Celebrating) is a family activity. It’s family.”
That family-first mentality has become the glue holding this team together. With a season that’s tested their depth, their chemistry, and their resolve, the Grizzlies could’ve easily unraveled. Instead, they’ve leaned into accountability and culture-two things that don’t show up in the box score but mean everything in a locker room.
“It says a lot about Jaren and his ability to focus on the essentials,” Iisalo added. “It also says a lot about the whole team's character.
Guys could quit, but they don't. They just try to find a way to win…and control what we can control.
We have a really good working atmosphere within the team. We don't really pay attention to what is being said on the outside.
We just do our job.”
That’s been the Grizzlies' north star through a turbulent stretch: ignore the outside noise, stay locked in, and trust the foundation. It’s not always pretty, and it certainly hasn’t been easy, but there’s a quiet confidence in how they’re moving forward.
The organization’s choice hasn’t been to distance itself from Morant or pretend his absence doesn’t matter. Instead, they’ve embraced him, flaws and all, as part of the family.
Whether that loyalty leads to a resurgence or more growing pains remains to be seen. But for now, one thing is certain: Ja Morant may not be on the court, but he hasn’t left the team.
Not even close.