Grizzlies’ Ja Morant credits Derrick Rose as an influence to his game

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant is widely regarded as one of the best young players in the NBA today.

Given the option of starting a franchise from scratch, Luka Doncic would likely be everyone’s top choice of cornerstone. But from there, Morant is as good a pick as anybody.

Thus far in 2022-23, Morant has been incredible. His style of play is so ferocious and fun to watch that it only be compared to one other player: prime Derrick Rose.

Recently, Morant admitted that Rose has a significant impact on his career.

“He really made it to where people believe in guys like me,” Morant told the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

“Coming in, athletic guards, I felt like he was pretty much the one who kind of made it more famous. With how acrobatic his finish is, his touch around the rim, and how explosive he was. Coming in, he was my comparison. It’s crazy to be out there on the floor sharing a court with him.”

It’s easy to understand why Morant has so much fondness for Rose.

The one thing that consistently eluded Rose throughout his career was an NBA championship. It will be interesting to see if Morant can top him in that regard. The Grizzlies already look like one of the best teams in the West. But obviously that was also true last season, and it didn’t stop the Golden State Warriors from trouncing them in the playoffs.

Morant is a huge star on and off the court. Between his new girlfriend causing a stir, the way he straight up took Drake’s old girl and his memorable feuds, he is in the headlines for one thing after another.

Will the 23-year-old eventually be able to lead his Memphis squad to the sort of heights that ultimately eluded Rose as a player?

Time will tell.