Ja Morant Makes Interesting Statement On Not Wanting To Be The Next Face of the NBA

With his unique look, athleticism, and incredible dunk package, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant was once seen as a major star for the future of the NBA. However, off-court incidents and some struggles with consistency have seen other players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama, and Cade Cunningham, among others, pass him up.

According to Morant, however, that may not be the worst thing possible, as he reveals that he never wanted to be seen as one of the faces of the NBA; instead, he simply plays basketball for the love of the game and winning, rather than for that type of accolade.

“There’s a lot that comes with that… I play basketball for the love of the game, not to be the face of the NBA. Obviously, I hear that a lot. I don’t put no pressure on it. I just go out and just play my game. Me pretty much just going out there and doing that had me in those conversations. Obviously, people have their own opinions, but I really don’t care for it too much.”

Unsurprisingly, Morant references the pressures that come with being the face of the NBA, with many around the league likely not wanting all of that extra pressure on their shoulders. However, given all of the stars that have entered the league recently, this isn't something that Morant needs to worry about, but with the Grizzlies stuck in the loaded Western Conference, he's got plenty more on his plate as the team looks to make an NBA playoffs push.