The Memphis Grizzlies fanbase is mourning the trade decision involving superstar Ja Morant.
Memphis traded the embattled guard to the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday. The team is embracing a rebuild and sending the two-time All-Star toward a fresh start.
The Trail Blazers gave up Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to land him.
Memphis posted a tribute graphic on social media celebrating Morant's accolades across his seven years with the franchise.
Replies under the post quickly filled with sad reactions from heartbroken fans.
“Why did you guys do this? 😭,” a fan wrote.
“Man gave us everything, got nothing back. Gutted,” a commenter replied.
“I’m gonna miss him! Good Luck bro! Grizzly for life🐻🐻🐻,” said another.
“This franchise is disrespecting one of the greatest Grizzlies of all time. Sad,” another added.
“Thank you for everything 12. Brought life back to the city of memphis and will forever be grateful. What could’ve been 💙🐻, one said.
“Thank you Ja for everything 12💔Brought so much energy and hope to this city. Gone too soon but never forgotten. Love forever❤️🥹 replied another.
Ja Morant Says Goodbye After Seven Seasons in Memphis
The Grizzlies selected Morant with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. He spent his entire seven-year career in Memphis before the trade.
In his final season with the team, Morant appeared in just 20 games. He averaged 19.5 points, 8.1 assists and 3.3 rebounds. Morant shot a career-low 41.0 percent from the field and 23.5 percent from three.
He gave Memphis an electrifying young star to build around in his early years. Injuries and off-court issues limited him to just 79 games over his final three seasons.
Morant leaves Memphis as a two-time All-Star, selected in 2022 and 2023. He also won the league's Most Improved Player award in 2022.
