Ja Morant quickly established himself as one of the NBA’s brightest young stars after the Memphis Grizzlies selected him second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft. The explosive guard won NBA Rookie of the Year in 2020, became a multiple-time All-Star and emerged as the face of the franchise during Memphis’ rise in the Western Conference.
With his elite athleticism, downhill scoring ability and improved playmaking, Morant helped turn the Grizzlies into a consistent playoff contender and one of the league’s most exciting teams.
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Running alongside him for much of that ascent was Jaren Jackson Jr., whom Memphis drafted fourth overall in 2018.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant and former teammate, forward/center Jaren Jackson Jr.Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
(Petre Thomas-Imagn Images)
Jackson blossomed into one of the NBA’s premier two-way big men, earning two All-Star selections and capturing the 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year award. Together, Morant and Jackson formed the core of Memphis’ identity — Morant driving the offense, Jackson anchoring the defense — and shared multiple playoff runs during their time as teammates.
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The Grizzlies’ ascension to contender status has hit a roadblock the past three seasons as Morant has missed significant time due to injuries and off-court issues. His partnership with Jackson officially ended when the big man was traded to the Utah Jazz before the trade deadline. Now, shortly after that deal, even more difficult news has surfaced.
According to NBA TV’s Chris Haynes, Jackson is likely to miss the remainder of the season after doctors discovered a localized pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) growth in his left knee, and he is scheduled to undergo surgery to protect his long-term health.
After the news broke, Morant took to X and reacted with a simple but telling praying hands emoji 🙏, signaling his support for his former teammate during the setback.
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Morant himself has been battling injuries this season. He has appeared in just 20 games, missing time due to a left elbow strain along with other setbacks that have limited his availability and disrupted Memphis’ rhythm. The injuries have added another challenging chapter to a season already marked by roster changes and transition.
Related: Grizzlies GM Announces Ja Morant Injury Update After NBA Trade Deadline
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.