Ja Morant Reportedly Ready to Move On From Memphis Grizzlies After Lingering Frustrations

Ja Morant (Image Credits: Imagn)

Ja Morant Reportedly Ready to Move On From Memphis Grizzlies After Lingering Frustrations

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Afshan Khan | Last updated Apr 16, 2026 2:14 PM ET

Ja Morant has faced a rollercoaster of challenges this season, grappling with injuries and a rough relationship with the Memphis Grizzlies.

It all kicked off in September 2025 when Morant hinted at frustrations with the coaching staff following a disappointing loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Tensions escalated with a notable confrontation between Morant and coach Tuomas Iisalo, leading to a surprising suspension for Morant—a clear sign that the organization was rallying behind their coach.

This decision sent shockwaves through the league, raising eyebrows about Morant’s future in Memphis. Recent reports from ESPN’s Tim MacMahon suggest that Morant has been struggling to recover from his suspension, expressing to peers and former coaches that he feels done with the team.

“Morant still hasn’t gotten over the suspension, multiple league sources said, because he felt alienated by teammates, who were told to leave the star guard alone so he could work through the issues that had led to the suspension. In the aftermath, Morant told players around the league and some of his former coaches that he isn’t playing for Memphis anymore, sources said,” Via Tim MacMahon.

Morant has become a key player during the recent trade season, and the discussions reached a fever pitch at the trade deadline. However, no trade occurred, leaving Morant still with the Grizzlies amid ongoing tensions.

The situation escalated during a recent home game when every Grizzlies player gifted their jersey to a fan as a thank-you gesture—except for Morant, who was reportedly excluded from this event. This clearly hints at the direction the franchise is heading. Additionally, Morant has indicated his lack of interest in remaining with the Grizzlies by skipping the exit interview.

Kendrick Perkins Issues Stern Warning to Ja Morant — He Could Be Out of the NBA

Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins has turned heads with his strong take on Morant during his recent appearance on the Road Trippin’ Show. He claims that the point guard needs to be careful; he could possibly be out of the league.

“With this draft class coming in they’re full of franchise guys. So teams are saying we’re not going to put up with nothing, put up with s---. You got guys that are coming in not just this draft, next year draft, the draft after that. I just saw a video f------ circulate they got another Wemby in France right now at 15 years old. There is levels to this sh*t to team valuing guys it is not crazy to think in 2 years from now that Ja Morant is not on a team that can really happen,” Perkins said.

The most recent NBA draft was stunning, showcasing exceptional talent entering the league. A prime example is Cooper Flagg, who captured attention with his outstanding performance and set several notable records during his rookie season. Additionally, the upcoming draft event promises to be equally exciting, featuring talents like Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa.

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

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