Ja Morant Posters Jalen Smith For Dunk Of The Year Candidate

Ja Morant threw down what was easily one of the best dunks of the year over Jalen Smith during the Memphis Grizzlies’ 130-112 win over the Indiana Pacers on Saturday. Morant added 23 points and 10 assists to extend the team’s current win streak to nine games.

When asked whether the play was one of the best dunks of his career, Morant responded, “Yeah, easy,” before referencing the difficulty. He added: “It’s what everybody has been waiting for. I finally made it.”

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – JANUARY 14: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies dunks the ball over Jalen Smith #25 of the Indiana Pacers in the third quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on January 14, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Morant’s teammate, Desmond Bane added that he, “ain’t seen nothing like that one. That’s probably going to go down as dunk of the year.”

“Obviously we’re having fun out there, playing hard and playing together,” Bane further said.

Morant is currently in the midst of one of the best years of his short career. Following suit, he is gearing up for the release of his first signature shoe. The sneaker will make him the 23rd NBA athlete in history to receive his own signature sneaker with Nike.

Following Saturday’s win, the Grizzlies improve to 29-13, tied with the Denver Nuggets for the best record in the Western Conference.

“We’re not playing perfect basketball,” Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said of the winning streak. “I’m just glad our guys are finding different ways to win, whether we’re playing with a lead or playing from behind. Each game has presented a different challenge for us and our guys have stayed the course.”

The loss brings the Pacers down to 23-21 on the season.

Check out Ja Morant’s ferocious dunk from Saturday night below.

[Via]

Ja Morant Makes It Up To Young Grizzlies Fan Who Had Signed Ball Stolen

Ja Morant has quickly blossomed into one of the best players in the entire NBA. As a result of his play, he has been able to turn the Memphis Grizzlies into real title contenders. Whether or not they go far this year truly depends on Morant’s ability to stay healthy.

Additionally, he has become a huge hero in the city of Memphis. For instance, Morant is always looking to help out fans in any way he can. On Wednesday night, Morant had such an opportunity after a story about an 11-year-old Grizzlies fan went viral.

Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half against the San Antonio Spurs at FedExForum on January 11, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Ja Morant Reaches Out

As the story goes, Ellie Hughes wanted to get Morant’s attention on Monday. According to TMZ, Hughes put down her basketball to do so, but when she went to go grab it again, it was gone. Hughes goes to every Grizzlies home game, and the basketball was filled with signatures from players both past and present.

With the story subsequently going viral on social media, Morant decided to reach out through social media. Luckily, his message was heard, and he was able to link up with Hughes on Wednesday night.

In the video clip down below, you can see Hughes receiving a pair of signed Nike Ja 1s. She also got a signed game-worn jersey, which is truly amazing. Additionally, she got to spend some time with Morant, who scored 38 points in a win against the Spurs.

Overall, this was a great moment for the young fan. While they may still be hurt about losing their basketball, they still got an amazing experience in Memphis. Hopefully, that ball turns up sooner rather than later.

Let us know what you think of Morant’s deed, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world.

[Via]

DaBaby Hangs With Ja Morant’s Dad Courtside

It certainly seems like it’s been a while since DaBaby has been in the headlines for good reasons. The rapper has been relatively quiet following his controversial comments at Rolling Loud in 2021.

Regardless, it appears as though the 31-year-old is still enjoying life. On Wednesday night (January 4), he was sitting courtside with Ja Morant’s dad, Tee.

DaBaby attends the game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Los Angeles Lakers at Spectrum Center on January 02, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

In the entertaining footage, the unexpected duo are soaking in some live basketball action between Morant’s Memphis Grizzlies and the “ROCKSTAR” rapper’s team, the Charlotte Hornets.

“I got OG in here tonight. In cahoots with the refs. This my dawg right here, man. It’s up right here, you see what I’m sayin’? I got him in here tonight, I’m puttin’ pressure on these boys, man. I got Melo for 12,” boasts DaBaby.

“The refs out here acting like we playing in Memphis. Don’t put me out about it, but the refs acting like we playing in motherf*ckin’ Memphis,” he continues afterwards.

Unfortunately for DaBaby, the Grizzlies easily took down the Hornets with a final score of 131-107. Morant led the team to victory through his 23 points and eight assists, further improving their record to 24-13 on the season.

In other news surrounding the rapper, his most recent album, Baby On Baby 2, majorly undersold. According to reports, the project only sold 17,200 units in its first week. Comparatively, Baby On Baby, sold 124,000 units.

He subsequently took to his social media accounts to air out his frustration, claiming he’s being blackballed. Some artists, including Boosie Badazz also had his back. “Ain’t no way my n*gga @DaBabyDaBaby supposed to sell 16k after selling almost 150k his last first week!! he one of the BIGGEST n this sh*t!! I DONT KNOW WHATS GOING ON BUT SOMETHING IS DEFINITELY GOING ON!!” writes the “Wipe Me Down” rapper in a tweet.

What are your thoughts on this new friendship? Comment down below. Finally, make sure to stay tuned to HNHH for all of the latest stories and updates.

SOURCE SPORTS: Ja Morant Sued for Allegedly Striking a Teenager During Pick-Up Game

Ja Morant Sued for Allegedly Striking a Teenager During Pick-Up Game

Ja Morant is being taken to court. A teenager states Morant attacked him during a summer basketball game at his home.

According to TMZ Sports, the lawsuit was filed in Shelby County, Tennessee, in September, citing a July 26 incident in which Morant allegedly got into a verbal altercation with a 17-year-old.

The court documents state as the disagreement escalated, the 17-year-old accidentally hit Morant in the face with a basketball. Morant asked a bystander, “Should I do it to him?” and swung “with a closed fist, knocking him to the ground.”

The 17-year-old stated Morant continued to punch him while he was on the floor, with another man jumping in.

The docs state officers acknowledged “a large knot” on Morant’s head. Morant told the officers he hit the teenager but was in self-defense and swung as the teen “began to approach him as if he wanted to fight.”

Both parties agreed that spectators broke up the fight, but Morant said the teenager “made verbal threats stating he’d ‘light his house up’” as he was removed from the property.

The DA declined prosecution after the investigation. Morant did not offer a comment on the suit.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Ja Morant Sued for Allegedly Striking a Teenager During Pick-Up Game appeared first on The Source.

Ja Morant Sued For Attacking Teen, NBA Star Claims Self-Defense: Report

An altercation that reportedly occurred over the summer is at the center of a lawsuit against Ja Morant. The Memphis Grizzlies star has been named in a lawsuit that claims Morant attacked a 17-year-old during a basketball game at his home in Tennessee.

According to TMZ, the NBA star hosted the pickup game at his residence on July 26. It was stated that during the game, a verbal argument ensued and soon escalated.

Ja Morant
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – DECEMBER 31: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at FedExForum on December 31, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Read More: Ja Morant Shows Off Gorgeous New Nike Ja 1 Colorway

TMZ claims the court documents are sealed, but they were able to finesse a few details from the police. The victim reportedly said things turned sour after he “accidentally” hit the baller in the face with the basketball. The teen suggested he only tried to toss the ball to Morant, not hurt him.

However, Morant allegedly didn’t see it as a mistake. According to the teen, the NBA star “approached him, put his chin on his shoulder, and asked a bystander ‘Should I do it to him?’”

Then, Morant allegedly struck him “with a closed fist, knocking him to the ground.”

The purported victim also claimed that while on the ground, the basketball star “continued sticking him.” Another man, alleged to be Morant’s brother, “jumped in and began hitting him as well.” When police responded to the scene, it was noted that the teen had a “large knot” on his head.

Ja Morant
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – JANUARY 01: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the game against the Sacramento Kings at FedExForum on January 01, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Read More: Ja Morant To Debut New Nike Shoe in Christmas Game

When speaking with the Grizzlies star, the baller admitted to hitting the teen. However, he claimed he was only retaliating in self-defense. He said his accuser threw the basketball at him out of anger during an argument and “began to approach him as if he wanted to fight.”

He also told the authorities that the teen threatened to “light his house up” while being removed from the residence. Morant claimed his family didn’t feel safe and “were put in fear” that something dangerous would occur.

It is unclear what damages the teen is seeking.

[via]

Lil Nas X’s New Hairdo Has Fans Making Comparisons To An NBA All-Star

While Lil Nas X was one of many people to react to a Steve Lacy thirst trap earlier this month, today (December 29), Lil Nas X reclaimed his rightful position as the center of internet attention. He posted a complimentary Instagram Story about an “mfer” who “sued the hell outta me,” and that was in line with his usual entertaining stream of consciousness, but the main attraction was a separate post about his hair.

“Since everybody sleep what y’all think??” Lil Nas X tweeted alongside a photo and video showing off his new locs.

The reactions were mostly positive, with the throughline being comparisons between Lil Nas X’s new look to that of Memphis Grizzlies All-Star point guard Ja Morant. Even Tierra Whack got in on the fun.

Later, Lil Nas X formally debuted the look on stage at the Falls Festival Melbourne at Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne, Australia. He posted an Instagram carousel of his Australian escapades. (A cheeky flick with Noah Cyrus from Billie Eilish’s 21st birthday bash also made the cut.)

Lil Nas X has been on his Long Live Montero Tour for much of this year in support of Montero, his debut studio album from September 2021.

Ja Morant Shows Off Gorgeous New Nike Ja 1 Colorway

Ja Morant is one of the most exciting young players in the entire NBA. He is one of those players who light up the court whenever he steps onto it. That being said, it should come as no surprise that he is getting his very own signature shoe.

Overall, Morant is the perfect player to be given this kind of honor. He has a unique style to his game, and it is incredibly flashy. Furthermore, he is the future of the NBA, and when LeBron James retires, he could very well become the face of the league. Not to mention, his Grizzlies have the potential to someday win a title.

A detailed view of the new Nike Ja 1’s debuted and worn by Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on December 25, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Ja Morant Launches The Nike Ja 1

Yesterday, it was Christmas and this led to reports that Morant would debut his new shoe on Christmas Day. This sneaker is called the Nike Ja 1, and fans have been very excited about it. In the tweets below, we can see a blue and red model, which is the colorway that was originally revealed.

However, Morant debuted something much different against the Warriors. Instead, he wore a shoe that has a pinkish-purple upper, with a black Nike swoosh and a light blue midsole. Overall, it is a very gorgeous colorway that will hopefully be released as part of the Nike Ja 1 range.

In the report from Nick DePaula, it was revealed that this shoe is set to drop in April of next year for a price of $110 USD. This is an incredibly affordable model that is certainly going to impress people.

Let us know what you think of Morant’s new shoe, in the comments down below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the sneaker world.

[Via]

Ja Morant To Debut New Nike Shoe in Christmas Game

Ja Morant will be debuting the upcoming Nike Ja 1’s during the Memphis Grizzlies’ game against the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day. He previously teased the sneaker on social media on Christmas Eve by sharing a picture of a wrapped gift.

“Just being able to have a signature shoe with Nike, not a lot of guys have been able to achieve that,” Morant said, per ESPN. “It’s definitely a big milestone for me and something that I’ll never forget.”

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – APRIL 16: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts during the first half of Game One of the Western Conference First Round against the Minnesota Timberwolves at FedExForum on April 16, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

He continued: “I feel like the most important thing was telling a story. Obviously, finding ways to have my fans and people who support me have access to Ja and see what goes on in my life and what I’m about. Combining with Nike to put all of that stuff into a shoe was crazy.”

For Christmas, Morant will be wearing the sneaker in a bright blue colorway, with hints of gold, pink, lime green, and red. Wearing the shoe will make Morant the 23rd NBA athlete in history to receive his own signature sneaker with Nike.

As for when fans can expect to rock the shoe, Morant says it will be dropping in April 2023. The shoe is expected to be priced at $110.

The matchup between the Grizzlies and Warriors will be tipping off at 8:00 PM, ET. The game will be broadcast on ABC and ESPN.

The Grizzlies are currently 20-11, leaving them in second place in the Western Conference standings. On the other hand, the Warriors are 15-18 and struggling for a playoff spot.

Check out Ja Morant’s new Nike sneaker below.

[Via]

Ja Morant’s New Like Logo Revealed

Ja Morant has ascended to the upper echelon of the NBA as of late. He is easily one of the best players in the league right now. Consequently, the Memphis Grizzlies have a very bright future. In fact, they are currently at the top of the Western Conference standings, alongside the Denver Nuggets.

If you are a Grizzlies fan, there is no doubt that Morant is exciting to watch. Additionally, he has the potential to become the greatest player in the history of the franchise. If he were to bring them a championship, then he would certainly earn that designation.

Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at FedExForum on December 07, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Ja Morant x Nike

Thanks to his efforts out on the court, Morant has earned himself a new signature shoe. According to rumors, this model is going to be called the Nike Ja 1 and it will only drop in 2023. Regardless, this is a huge accomplishment that will certainly be celebrated.

Subsequently, Morant has started to show off some of his upcoming Nike gear. For instance, the Grizzlies star was recently photographed while wearing some sweatpants that contained what appears to be his new logo. Below, you can see some up-close images of this insignia, including an isolated version of what it looks kike.

Logos are a great way for players to build up their brand. One can just look at the Jumpman logo to truly understand this. While Morant’s logo won’t be nearly as iconic, you can’t deny that he has a solid foundation for the future of his sneaker line.

We should have more details concerning Ja’s signature line soon, so stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the sneaker world. Additionally, let us know what you think of the logo, in the comments down below.

[Via]

Ja Morant FaceTimes Fans Courtside After Being Ejected

Ja Morant FaceTimed fans sitting courtside during the Grizzlies’ game against the Thunder on Saturday night. Referee Ray Acosta ejected the star guard earlier in the night.

“I got my first tech for saying I got hit in my fucking face. Didn’t curse at him,” Morant said after the game. “Another situation where he’s in my conversation and I get another tech for talking with a fan. I feel like when these fans came here, went online to buy these tickets, they didn’t say Ray [Acosta’s] name to come watch.”

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – NOVEMBER 30: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts to a call on the floor in the second quarter of the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Target Center on November 30, 2022 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Crew chief John Goble said that a first technical was issued for “use of profanity directed at an official.” The second was “for making a comment questioning the integrity of an official.”

As for FaceTiming the fans, Morant explained: “They came to support us. They came to watch us play. I don’t care about getting fined.

The fan Morant called was named Lisa and wore a Morant-themed sweatshirt to the game.

Morant finished the game with just six points while hitting 3-of-10 attempts. The Grizzlies went on to lose 115-109, snapping their seven-game win streak.

When asked whether he feels he’s been singled out by officiating crews, Morant said, “I don’t know. Probably so. Probably don’t like me.”

Refs also tossed him from a game on December 1 for making similar comments about officiating. Additionally, the league fined him $35,000 for the incident.

Check out the moment the referees ejected Morant below.

[Via]