Ja Morant’s 2024-25 NBA season concluded with both promise and disappointment. The Memphis Grizzlies’ star guard averaged 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds over 50 regular-season games. However, his postseason was cut short due to a hip injury sustained in Game 3 of the first-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Grizzlies, leading by 29 points at the time, ultimately lost the game and were swept from the playoffs.
In the aftermath, speculation about Morant’s future with Memphis has intensified. Concerns over Morant’s injury history—missing 126 games over the past three seasons—and off-court controversies have fueled discussions about the Grizzlies possibly moving on from their franchise player.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12)© Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
ESPN’s Tim MacMahon recently revealed on the Hoop Collective Podcast that “whispering and rumbling” has begun around the NBA pertaining to a potential Morant trade. Amid this, the star point guard made an announced with Nike.
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Resharing the news on his Instagram story, Morant revealed a special edition of his second signature sneaker, the Nike Ja 2, which is partnership with Kool-Aid.
The “Mixed Berry” colorway features mismatched designs inspired by Morant’s favorite childhood flavors—Blue Raspberry and Cherry. The sneakers incorporate playful elements like the Kool-Aid Man’s image and his iconic “Ohhh Yeah!” catchphrase. This collaboration reflects Morant’s personal connection to the brand, recalling memories of Kool-Aid being a staple at his grandmother’s house in South Carolina (h/t Daily Memphian).
Morant’s relationship with Nike began in 2019 when he signed a multi-year endorsement deal. He debuted his first signature shoe, the Nike Ja 1, on Christmas Day 2022. The Kool-Aid collaboration marks a continuation of this partnership, showcasing Morant’s influence both on and off the court.
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While trade rumors persist, his continued presence in high-profile collaborations suggests that his marketability and superstar appeal endure.
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