Ja Morant continues to be out of commission for the Memphis Grizzlies as the two-time All-Star nurses a lingering calf injury. Morant sat out Sunday’s 119-96 blowout win against the Portland Trail Blazers, marking his 10th straight missed game. At this point, the Grizzlies have yet to provide a firm timetable for the 26-year-old’s return.
On Tuesday, the NBA made an announcement involving Morant and Memphis’ upcoming game against the Utah Jazz. The Grizzlies will host the Jazz at FedExForum on Friday, and while there is no confirmation that Morant will suit up for the game, the 6-foot-2 point guard intends to make it a special occasion for the fans.
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Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) during an NBA game.© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Injuries have once again been an issue for Morant in his seventh season in the NBA. He has been limited to 12 games this term, averaging 17.9 points on 35.9% shooting, 3.5 rebounds, 7.6 assists and 1.0 steals in 28.8 minutes per contest. With their superstar sitting out half of their games so far this season, the Grizzlies have struggled and currently hold an 11-13 record.
Morant has also been dragged into trade rumors early in the season, which has placed a cloud over his future with the same team that drafted him second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. The Miami Heat have been identified as a potential landing spot for Morant if the Grizzlies decide to trade him, with the Heat reportedly already having “internal discussions” about a potential blockbuster move.
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The Grizzlies recently suspended Morant for conduct detrimental to the team. Upon his return, he admitted that he no longer found joy in playing for Memphis. This cast more doubt on his future with the franchise.
Despite all the off-court drama, Morant has a special treat in store for Grizzlies fans for Friday’s game against the Jazz. The NBA announced the news via the league’s official website.
“Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant is treating 250 fans with a pair of tickets to the game on Friday, 12/12, at 7 p.m. CT against the Utah Jazz. Tickets will be given away Wednesday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m. inside the Grand Lobby of FedExForum on a first-come, first-serve basis (limit of two tickets per adult),” the NBA announced.
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On top of that, tickets will also be available for as low as $12. The team will also offer a 12% discount on merchandise on 12/12.
It is worth noting that Morant has a chance to return for Friday’s game. He was listed as doubtful to play on Sunday against the Blazers, which was the first time he was given that designation since suffering the calf injury in mid-November. This suggests that Morant is inching closer toward his much-anticipated comeback, and Friday would be a perfect opportunity for him to do so.
Related: Grizzlies Coach Announces Ja Morant Injury Update After Missing 8 Straight Games
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.