Ja Morant introduced by the Blazers: “It’s time to turn the page”
Ja Morant speaks publicly for the first time since being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, sending a clear message: he’s ready to leave the past behind and embrace a fresh start
After seven seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies, Ja Morant is ready to begin a new chapter in his career. His trade to the Portland Trail Blazers represents more than just a change of teams – it is an opportunity to finally move on from everything that has defined the last few years of his life off the court.
Speaking at NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, the two-time All-Star addressed the media for the first time since the trade, explaining that he views Portland as a true fresh start.
New home. New team. New organization. I can show Portland fans a different Ja. It’s like starting all over again
Ja Morant
Ja Morant: “I’m not the villain people make me out to be”
One of the main topics Morant addressed was inevitably his public image, which has been shaped by the two suspensions he received in 2023 after appearing with a firearm in Instagram Live videos.
The former Grizzlies star, however, believes it’s time to move beyond those incidents.
What would I like to clear up? My image. That I’m a bad guy. I’m Ja. I’ve made mistakes, but they’ve been addressed and dealt with. I don’t understand why, years later, with nothing else happening since then, that’s still the conversation. If I were really that person, I probably wouldn’t even be here talking to you today
Ja Morant
Morant also said he has changed, both as a person and as a professional.
I’ve grown a lot over the past few years and learned so much. I approach things differently now, I feel more mature, and I’m ready to get to work
Ja Morant
The 26-year-old explained that he spent the past four months training intensely while trade rumors continued to build.
Physically, I feel great. I’ve worked hard to make sure I’m ready
Ja Morant
Portland, nature, and a clearer mind
One of the reasons Morant is excited about Portland is the lifestyle the city offers. Through his partnership with Nike, he had already spent considerable time in Oregon over the years, and now he appreciates the city’s slower pace even more.
It’s a really peaceful place, and I like that. Lately I’ve been getting more into nature. I don’t go hiking, but I enjoy walking, riding my bike, kayaking. It helps me appreciate life, my family, and this new opportunity. It clears my mind
Ja Morant
A crowded backcourt? No problem
Morant’s arrival gives the Trail Blazers one of the deepest backcourts in the league, featuring players such as Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Deni Avdija.
For Morant, however, sharing the floor won’t be an issue.
All these guys will bring out new parts of my game, and I’ll do the same for them. I don’t think there will be any problems with minutes or roles. We’re all unselfish
Ja Morant
Memphis will always be home
Despite the trade, Morant had nothing but appreciation for the franchise that selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
Memphis will always be home. I’m still close with a lot of my former teammates. The fans gave me so much love. Some people criticize me, but I see it as tough love, like family. I love Memphis, I love those fans, and I had some incredible years there
Ja Morant
The past now belongs to Memphis. Ahead of Morant is a completely blank page, and Portland could be the perfect place to rewrite his story – this time with the focus solely on basketball.