Ja Morant, one of the most electrifying young players in the NBA, has taken the basketball world by storm with his explosive dunks, clutch performances, and incredible athleticism.
His rise from a small-town kid in Dalzell, South Carolina, to the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft is a testament to his hard work and determination.
This article takes an in-depth look at Ja Morant’s real name, biography, net worth, and family, providing you with a comprehensive overview of the star’s life both on and off the court.
Ja Morant’s Real Name
Ja Morant, known to fans by his iconic nickname, was born Temetrius Jamel Morant on August 10, 1999, in Dalzell, South Carolina.
While “Ja” is the name he is widely recognized by, his full name reflects his family’s values. “Temetrius” is a unique first name that stands out, giving a nod to his distinct character.
As an NBA player, Morant’s full name may not come up often in interviews or on the court, but it is a part of his identity.
Fun Fact: The pronunciation of Temetrius Jamel Morant is as follows: Teh-MET-rih-us Jah-MELL Moh-RAHNT.
His name is significant to the athlete as it connects him to his roots and the small-town upbringing that helped shape his journey.
Ja Morant Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Ja Morant Real Name | Temetrius Jamel Morant |
| Ja Morant Date of Birth | August 10, 1999 |
| Ja Morant Place of Birth | Dalzell, South Carolina, USA |
| Ja Morant Height | 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters) |
| Ja Morant Weight | 174 pounds (79 kg) |
| Ja Morant Position | Point Guard |
| Ja Morant College | Murray State University |
| Ja Morant NBA Team | Memphis Grizzlies |
| Ja Morant Draft Year | 2019 |
| Ja Morant Draft Pick | 2nd overall |
| Ja Morant Achievements | NBA Rookie of the Year (2020), NBA Most Improved Player (2022), NBA All-Star (2022, 2023) |
Early Life and Birth Information
Ja Morant was born in the small town of Dalzell, South Carolina, where he was raised by his supportive family. His father, Tee Morant, was a former basketball player who played in high school and college.
Tee’s passion for basketball rubbed off on Ja at a young age. His mother, Jamie Morant, was a dedicated supporter, guiding him through his academic and athletic endeavors.
Growing up, Ja was always an outstanding athlete, excelling in various sports, but basketball became his true passion.
Despite the challenges of living in a less-than-ideal basketball environment, Ja’s family provided the emotional and financial support he needed to pursue his dreams.
High School Career
Ja attended Crestwood High School in Sumter, South Carolina. Despite being a talented player, Ja was relatively under-recruited during his high school years.
He wasn’t initially seen as a highly ranked player, with many top colleges overlooking him. Nonetheless, Ja’s natural ability and relentless work ethic helped him shine, and he eventually became the South Carolina Basketball Player of the Year.
His time at Crestwood helped him develop key skills, including ball handling, court vision, and his ability to score in multiple ways.
His father, Tee Morant, played a significant role in mentoring Ja, often training him on the court and pushing him to reach his fullest potential.
College Career at Murray State University
After high school, Ja committed to Murray State University in Kentucky, where he would play for the Murray State Racers.
His time at Murray State proved to be the launching pad for his professional career. Ja quickly became a standout player in college basketball, known for his incredible speed, athleticism, and playmaking abilities.
During his sophomore season, Ja led the NCAA in assists and became one of the top point guards in the country. He averaged 24.5 points, 10 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game, earning him All-American honors.
One of his most memorable moments came in the 2019 NCAA Tournament, where he led Murray State to a first-round victory over Marquette.
Ja’s performances at Murray State University caught the attention of NBA scouts and cemented his status as a potential top pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
NBA Draft and Professional Career
In 2019, Ja Morant was selected as the 2nd overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. This marked the beginning of his professional basketball career. His selection was a game-changer, as the Grizzlies hoped to build their future around the dynamic point guard.
Morant’s rookie season in the NBA was nothing short of spectacular. He immediately made an impact, earning the title of NBA Rookie of the Year in 2020.
He finished his first season averaging 17.8 points, 7.3 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, leading Memphis to an impressive performance.
As Ja’s career progressed, he continued to break records and earn accolades. In 2022, he was named NBA Most Improved Player and was selected to his first NBA All-Star game.
His rise didn’t stop there; Ja earned another NBA All-Star appearance in 2023, further cementing his position as one of the league’s brightest young stars.
Ja Morant’s Net Worth and Profession
Estimated Net Worth
As of 2024, Ja Morant’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. His financial success is a result of his NBA career, endorsement deals, and business ventures.
Net Worth Over the Years:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| Ja Morant’s 2020 | $8 million |
| Ja Morant’s 2021 | $15 million |
| Ja Morant’s2022 | $25 million |
| Ja Morant’s 2023 | $38 million |
| Ja Morant’s 2024 | $50 million |
NBA Salary
Ja Morant’s NBA salary has grown significantly since his rookie year. In the 2023-2024 season, he is set to earn over $12 million as part of his rookie contract extension with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Endorsements and Brand Deals
In addition to his salary, Ja has also secured several lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, Powerade, and Gatorade.
These partnerships have significantly contributed to his net worth. His deals with Nike include a signature sneaker line, adding a personal touch to his brand off the court.
Other Ventures
Beyond basketball, Ja has invested in various business ventures, including personal branding and community initiatives. His future business endeavors and investment strategies are likely to continue boosting his wealth.
Ja Morant’s Family
Tee Morant (Father)
Tee Morant, Ja’s father, has played a significant role in shaping Ja’s career. As a former high school and college player, Tee served as both a mentor and coach to Ja.
Their bond goes beyond basketball, with Tee consistently offering guidance throughout Ja’s rise to NBA stardom. Tee has been vocal about his role as Ja’s biggest supporter and is often seen courtside during games.
Jamie Morant (Mother)
Jamie Morant, Ja’s mother, has also been an influential figure in his life. She worked tirelessly to provide for Ja and his sister, Teniya Morant, while maintaining a balance between being a mother and a supportive figure in Ja’s career.
Jamie’s dedication to her children’s well-being and success has been crucial in helping Ja stay grounded.
Teniya Morant (Sister)
Ja’s sister, Teniya Morant, has also made her mark in the family dynamic. Although not involved in basketball professionally, Teniya is an important part of Ja’s support system. She often appears on his social media, showing off their tight-knit family bonds.
Kaari Jaidyn Morant (Daughter)
In addition to his immediate family, Ja also has a daughter, Kaari Jaidyn Morant, whom he frequently posts about on social media. Kaari’s presence in Ja’s life adds another layer of responsibility, and she is a major source of joy for him.
Ja Morant’s Additional Info About Ja Morant
Playing Style and Strengths
Ja Morant is known for his explosive dunks, clutch performances, and his elite basketball IQ. As a point guard, he is a dynamic playmaker who excels in fast-paced situations.
His quickness and agility make him a constant threat on the court, while his ability to set up teammates is one of his standout attributes.
- Strengths:
- Quick first step
- Ability to finish at the rim
- Excellent ball handler
- Vision and passing ability
- Leadership qualities on the court
Ja Morant’s Off-Court Life and Community Engagement
Ja has always shown a strong commitment to his community. He frequently engages in charity work, including providing assistance to youth programs in his hometown of Dalzell, South Carolina.
As a rising star and role model, Ja uses his platform to give back to those who supported him early in his career.
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his on-court success, Ja Morant has faced his fair share of controversies. These include social media missteps and occasional off-court incidents.
However, Ja has always shown resilience and has managed to rise above these challenges. His ability to focus on his career and maintain his status as a positive role model for young athletes is part of what makes him a standout figure in the sports world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ja Morant’s Real Name?
Ja Morant’s real name is Temetrius Jamel Morant.
What is Ja Morant’s Full Name?
His full name is Temetrius Jamel Morant.
What’s Ja Morant’s Real Name?
Ja Morant’s full name is Temetrius Jamel Morant.
What is Ja Morant’s Real Name?
Ja Morant was born as Temetrius Jamel Morant.
What’s Ja Morant’s Full Name?
His full name is Temetrius Jamel Morant.
Conclusion
Ja Morant’s journey from a small-town athlete in Dalzell, South Carolina to a rising star in the NBA is one of incredible perseverance, hard work, and talent.
His athleticism, leadership on the court, and growing net worth have solidified his place among the NBA’s elite. With a supportive family, rising endorsement deals, and a promising future ahead, Ja’s story is one of both inspiration and success. Whether he’s making game-changing plays for the Memphis Grizzlies or working to
improve his game every day, Ja Morant’s impact on the basketball world is undeniable. His rise to stardom proves that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.