Memphis Grizzlies fans are eagerly awaiting the 2025/26 season, hoping to witness a full Ja Morant comeback. The young star has endured several challenges in recent years, including intense partying, public controversies involving firearms, and a hip injury sustained during this year’s playoffs, which impacted his mental wellbeing. Now healthy and focused, Morant is preparing to return, aiming to reclaim his status as a dominant <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA force.
Chris Vernon, a Grizzlies insider, discussed Morant’s journey during a podcast on The Ringer, explaining the hardships the 25-year-old had to overcome. Once hailed as a transformative player for Memphis and a fan favorite for his explosive dunks and athleticism, Morant is showing signs of renewed strength and enthusiasm.
Ja Morant’s Mental Strength and Nike World Tour Experience
Vernon expressed sympathy for Morant’s struggles, highlighting a significant improvement in his mindset during the offseason.
He has been so down, and so despondent, and so mopey,
—Chris Vernon, Grizzlies insider
Morant’s current involvement in a Nike World Tour, promoting a new sneaker model, has boosted his confidence and reminded him of the hard work behind his accomplishments. This tour has given fans a glimpse of a happier and more motivated Ja than they have seen in years.
This summer tour that he has been on, and people will see it all over, because he’s on a Nike World Tour. This is by far the happiest I have seen him in four years. Easily.
—Chris Vernon, Grizzlies insider
Despite the criticism Morant faced during his low points, the tour symbolizes a comeback that transcends past mistakes. Vernon emphasized the resilience required to overcome such setbacks in professional sports.
If nothing else, look, everybody loves to tear somebody down, and then for them to come back from that. To rise above all their prior transgressions,
—Chris Vernon, Grizzlies insider
Overcoming Adversity and Regaining Form
The journey Morant has experienced is familiar to many athletes who struggle to maintain focus amid fame and fortune. While his performance numbers did not drastically fall, it was clear that he lacked the passion and energy seen in his early years. Vernon highlighted that Morant appears to be emerging from this difficult period stronger and more focused.
To see him now come out. All indications are he’s come out on the other side of things thing. All the problems, all the injuries, all the depression, all the everything, and it looks like the guy we saw the first two years when everybody in the NBA fell in love with that guy.
—Chris Vernon, Grizzlies insider
This resurgence could not be better timed for the NBA, which is searching for the next generation of stars to succeed veterans like LeBron James and Steph Curry. Players such as Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are in the conversation, yet Morant’s early popularity and dynamic playmaking remain unmatched by many.
The Impact of Ja Morant on Memphis and the NBA’s Future
Morant’s electrifying style and court presence have energized the Memphis market and contributed significantly to the team’s identity. His return to form promises to bring excitement back to the league, where his unique athleticism and playmaking stand out. The NBA benefits from having players like Morant at the forefront, keeping the game thrilling for fans nationwide.
The hope among supporters is that the renewed focus and improved mindset will keep Morant on track, steering clear of past troubles. His comeback represents not just a personal victory but also a vital step for the Memphis Grizzlies’ ambitions and the league’s evolving landscape.