Ja Morant Age: A Complete Breakdown of His Explosive Career and Future

At just 26 years old, Ja Morant has already established himself as one of the most electrifying players in the NBA. His journey to stardom has been anything but ordinary, marked by incredible highs and challenging lows.

This article explores the remarkable career of Ja Morant, from his humble beginnings to his current status as a franchise cornerstone for the Memphis Grizzlies.

How Old is Ja Morant?

Born on August 10, 1999, Ja Morant is currently 26 years old. Despite his relatively young age, he has already packed a career’s worth of achievements into his six seasons in the NBA.

His age is a frequent topic of discussion among fans and analysts, as it highlights his incredible potential for future growth and success.

The Early Years: Forging a Superstar

Morant’s journey began in Dalzell, South Carolina, where he was trained by his father, Tee Morant, a former basketball player himself. From a young age, Ja displayed a fearless attitude, often competing against older and bigger opponents.

His father’s unique training methods, which included using tractor tires to improve his jumping, helped lay the foundation for his explosive athleticism.

Despite his undeniable talent, Morant was largely overlooked by major college programs. He was an unranked prospect coming out of Crestwood High School, where he was the all-time leading scorer.

This underdog status would become a recurring theme in his career, fueling his relentless drive to prove his doubters wrong.

The Murray State Phenom

It was at Murray State University that Ja Morant truly burst onto the national scene. After being discovered by an assistant coach by chance, Morant quickly became the star of the team.

In his sophomore season, he put together one of the most impressive campaigns in college basketball history.

He became the first player in NCAA history to average over 20 points and 10 assists per game in a single season. His incredible court vision, combined with his high-flying dunks, made him a must-see player.

He was named a consensus first-team All-American and won the Bob Cousy Award as the nation’s top point guard.

Exploding onto the NBA Scene

The Memphis Grizzlies selected Ja Morant with the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, and he immediately made his mark. He won the NBA Rookie of the Year award, showcasing his readiness for the professional level.

His fearless drives to the basket and highlight-reel plays quickly made him a fan favorite.

Morant’s impact went beyond individual accolades. He transformed the Grizzlies into a perennial playoff contender, leading them to their first postseason appearance in his second season.

His leadership and on-court swagger were instrumental in establishing a new era of Grizzlies basketball.

All-Star Ascendancy and Challenges

By his third season, Morant had ascended to superstardom. He was named a starter in the 2022 NBA All-Star Game and won the NBA Most Improved Player Award.

He also earned a selection to the All-NBA Second Team, solidifying his place among the league’s elite.

However, his rapid rise has not been without its challenges. Morant has faced multiple suspensions and controversies that have tested his resilience.

Despite these setbacks, he has continued to perform at a high level, demonstrating his mental toughness and commitment to his team.

What’s Next for Ja Morant?

At 26, Ja Morant is just entering his prime. With a long-term contract extension with the Grizzlies, he is poised to lead the franchise for years to come.

His focus will be on staying healthy and leading his team to an NBA championship.

As he continues to mature both on and off the court, the sky is the limit for Ja Morant. His journey from an unranked high school prospect to an NBA superstar is a testament to his hard work, talent, and unwavering self-belief.

Ja Morant’s Career by the Numbers