“I’m a very loyal guy”: Ja Morant reaffirms loyalty to Memphis after starring on return from injury

The Memphis Grizzlies have endured a shaky start to the 2025-26 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, posting an 18–23 record that currently places them 10th in the Western Conference standings. Injuries, inconsistent play, and growing questions about the future of star guard Ja Morant have contributed to the team’s early struggles, fueling speculation about potential trades and the direction of the franchise.

However, the Grizzlies provided a glimpse of what they can be when firing on all cylinders, storming back to form with a commanding 126–109 victory over the Orlando Magic at the O2 Arena in London on Monday, January 19 (Philippine Standard Time). Central to the win was the performance of Morant, who returned to the lineup after missing six games with a right calf injury.

The 26-year-old put up 24 points and 13 assists, demonstrating the elite skill set and leadership that made him the cornerstone of the franchise.

The performance was not only a statement on the court but also a response to persistent rumors about his future in Memphis. Reports have suggested that Grizzlies management is actively listening to offers for Morant, raising questions about whether the star guard could be traded. But Morant used the victory to clarify his stance.

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“I have got a logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be. If anybody in here knows me — I’m a very loyal guy,” Morant said after the game, reaffirming his commitment to the franchise.

He also reflected on the importance of basketball in his life, describing the game as therapeutic and a platform to showcase his capabilities.

Ja Morant says the Grizzlies tattoo on his back ‘should tell you exactly where I want to be’:

“If anybody here knows me… I’m a very loyal guy.”

(via @TheSteinLine) pic.twitter.com/zixJwpUGKf

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 18, 2026

“Just being able to play basketball — it’s very therapeutic for me. I know what I’m capable of out there on the court and I was able to show that tonight. It was big-time, walking off and representing Memphis is what it’s all about,” he added.

Morant’s leadership has extended beyond his scoring and playmaking. While the season has included off-court headlines, including a clash with first-year head coach Tuomas Iisalo in November that led to a one-game suspension, Morant has downplayed any notion of lingering tension. He credited Iisalo for placing the team in positions to succeed, highlighting the collaborative nature of their on-court chemistry.

“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. We got into a great rhythm early, got a big lead, after that it’s just managing,” Morant said, showing maturity in navigating team dynamics while under media scrutiny.

Financially, Morant remains a significant investment for the franchise, earning $39.4 million this season. He is under contract for two more years, with salaries of $42.2 million in 2026–27 and $44.9 million in 2027–28, before becoming an unrestricted free agent in summer 2028. This makes him one of the highest-paid guards in the league and underscores Memphis’ commitment to retaining him as the face of the franchise.

For the Grizzlies, Morant’s return to form could mark a turning point in an otherwise turbulent season. The team now has a chance to climb back into the Western Conference playoff picture, but much will depend on Morant’s health, consistency, and the ability of the supporting cast to complement his dynamic style of play.

As trade rumors swirl and the media spotlight remains intense, Morant has chosen to let his performance speak for itself — a message to fans, teammates, and the organization alike: his loyalty to Memphis is unwavering, and his drive to win remains as strong as ever.

With the Grizzlies facing critical games in the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Ja Morant — not just as a star athlete, but as the emotional and strategic leader capable of turning the team’s fortunes around.

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