The back-and-forth between Stephen A. Smith and Ja Morant is definitely going somewhere.
Recently, Smith unapologetically shared his thoughts on ESPN’s First Take about some NBA stars feeling uneasy about playing in Memphis.
Smith mentioned that guys like Jimmy Butler have safety concerns. He also raised the question of whether the Grizzlies might consider trading Morant.
In response, Morant took to X (formerly Twitter), and while he didn’t call Smith out directly, he indicated that there’s been too much chatter about the Grizzlies.
During the Finals, First Take has been a bit scattered, covering a mix of topics, some of which aren’t directly related to the championship. Morant also reiterated his loyalty to Memphis, which is great to hear.
That same night, Smith replied to Morant’s post, reminding him that he had indeed talked about the Finals. But the Grizzlies were in the conversation because they just traded Desmond Bane.
“So this is what we’re doing now @JaMorant? I recall talking about the Finals. But the @memgrizz made news because of Bane getting traded. AND, your possible extension coming up. Would you prefer I go into detail about WTH has been going on in Memphis? Why players have stated they’re not interested in going? Or even MORE details? Or would you like me to leave well enough alone, and let the great peeps of Memphis address it on their own? Your call! I’m all ears!” Smith wrote.
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So this is what we’re doing now @JaMorant? I recall talking about the Finals. But the @memgrizz made news because of Bane getting traded. AND, your possible extension coming up. Would you prefer I go into detail about WTH has been going on in Memphis? Why players have stated… https://t.co/kSa3v4d7Sz
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) June 17, 2025
As the NBA Finals are set to resume soon, it looks like First Take will keep digging into what’s going on with Morant and the Grizzlies in the days ahead.
Ja Morant Clears Air On Trade Rumors
Ja Morant is setting the record straight about his future with the Memphis Grizzlies, and he’s doing it in style.
After a wave of trade rumors followed the news of teammate Desmond Bane being traded to the Orlando Magic, Morant jumped on social media to make one thing clear. He’s not going anywhere.
“& ima be in dat 901 🐻 source: ME!!” Morant wrote.
& ima be in dat 901 🐻
— Ja Morant (@JaMorant) June 17, 2025
source : ME !!
It’s a bold statement that shows he has no plans of leaving the only NBA home he’s ever known.
But that’s not all he had to say. Morant also took the opportunity to call out some of the national media coverage that paints Memphis as an undesirable or unsafe place to play basketball.
After hearing comments from ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, who claimed that some players have concerns about safety in Memphis, Morant fired back.
“Talkin bout the grizz more than the finals 😂 wit these 🧢 ahh sources,” he added.
With the Grizzlies going through a big transition, and talk circulating about his frustration with his role on the team, Morant is taking a stand. He’s not shying away from the spotlight; he’s embracing it and challenging anyone who doubts the 901.
Also Read: REPORT: Heat’s Connection To Another Grizzlies Superstar Surfaces After Desmond Bane Trade
