Grizzlies star Ja Morant is seeing his brand elevate to new heights, something that could be important for the Grizzlies and the city of Memphis, Mark Giannotto of the Memphis Commercial Appeal writes.
Morant has led his team to a 32-16 record on the season, averaging a career-high 25.3 points, 6.0 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game. His shooting numbers have also increased from last season (48.7% from the floor and 35% on threes, up from 44.9% and 30.3%, respectively). As Giannotto notes, Morant already has agreements with companies such as Nike and BodyArmor.
“It could be one of those things similar to when LeBron (James) was in Cleveland, and the opportunities that came with the Cavaliers because of that,” said Alex Hanono, a senior manager of the Celebrity and Influencer department at international marketing agency The Marketing Arm.
“Obviously that’s a long ways ahead, and a lot of winning and success, but if you want to take that long view at it, that’s probably something in Morant’s sights and in the team’s sights.”
Here’s more from around the Southwest:
- Nets guard Patty Mills discussed a variety of topics with Michael Wright of NBA.com, including how difficult it was to leave the Spurs last offseason. Prior to signing with Brooklyn, Mills spent 10 straight seasons with San Antonio. “I think why it was hard was because I was leaving a place, and more importantly, people, that have helped me grow up in a way,” Mills explained as part of a larger quote.
- Pelicans forward Herbert Jones is gaining confidence in his three-point shot, Christian Clark of NOLA.com writes. Jones has been working closely with assistant coach Fred Vinson on his mechanics. In 42 games this season, he’s shot 50.2% from the floor and 40% from three, scoring 9.1 points per game.
- In a separate story for NOLA.com, Clark examines the strength coach that Zion Williamson is working with. The strength coach, Jasper Bibbs, does not work for the Pelicans, who haven’t seen Williamson play since last May. Williamson suffered a setback in his rehab from foot surgery roughly six weeks ago, but no timetable was issued for a return.
They were going to issue a timetable but they were afraid Zion would eat it.
I have this feeling that Zion will never play another game for the Pels again. He’ll sit out this year, and will demand a trade over the summer.
I truly hope he comes back this season, as he is outrageously good!
But… I don’t mind if he asks for a trade, it is his right to do so, & if he wants to move on from the Big Easy he can do that, no reason for him to stay where he doesn’t wanna be, right?
Except that pesky contract he signed…
If a team is able to trade your contract whenever the feel like it to wherever they want, it is more than fair for players to request that their contract gets traded. If you don’t agree with that then you think the logo’s of the 30 teams in the NBA are more valuable than the players in the NBA.
Morant is the best player in the West?
He’s certainly the most exciting player to watch…At least, for my money..
Exciting, yes. Best, no. Luka out dueled him again for the 2nd time in two weeks. Mavs are 3-1 on the season against them and the hottest team in BB.
Ja head and shoulders clear of Zion
“Hi, I’m a personal trainer, maybe we can work together”…hands Zion business card.
*card reads Ronald McDonald*
Herbert Jones, with a 45%3 tear in the last 12 and 56%3 in the last 6 games… He’s had little spurts before, but it keeps building. Great defensively playing the 4, at 6-8 210 could likely play the 3, how good will he get. Better than RoCo I think at least. Instincts. He is fouling too much but moving around a lot too.
EC says: Keep Fred Vinson away from Claxton!