Ja Morant Makes Decision Away From NBA After Grizzlies Season

Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Ja Morant Makes Decision Away From NBA After Grizzlies Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 17, 2026 8:02 AM ET

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant continues to make noise after a tumultuous 2025-26 season.

The 26-year-old battled calf soreness and a UCL sprain in his left elbow this season, limiting him to just 20 games. In those appearances, Morant averaged 19.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 8.1 assists per game.

Without their best player, the Grizzlies finished 13th in the Western Conference with a 25-57 record. His future with the franchise remains unclear following a turbulent last three years shrouded in controversy.

For now, Morant shifts his focus to the present, making moves to expand his portfolio beyond the court.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12)© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Morant and Catch12, his media and business venture company, acquired a minority stake in the French professional basketball club Levallois Metropolitans. The move signals a deliberate push to grow his footprint outside the NBA. Morant spoke about the investment per Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.

"I'm excited about how this first season with the Metros is going," he said. "They represent the culture, just like we do. I like what we are building and hopefully we get to take it into NBA Europe."

The NBA and FIBA have progressed toward a partnership to establish a professional basketball league in Europe. Paris ranks among the priority markets, with a target launch date of 2027. Morant appears intent on securing a role in that future, whether on the court or not.

The investment arrives at a crossroads for the two-time All-Star. The NBA suspended Morant for 25 games to open the 2023-24 season after he brandished a firearm online.

Injuries and conduct concerns have defined the two seasons since. Over the past three campaigns, Morant has played a total of only 79 games.

Memphis attempted to trade Morant at this year's deadline but found no teams willing to part with assets to acquire him.

A departure appears inevitable this offseason. Morant’s stake in the Metropolitans suggests he already has his next chapter in mind.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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