Ja Morant's confession after being traded to the Blazers

Ja Morant is already looking ahead. After weeks marked by rumors, speculations, and one of the most shocking trades of the summer in the NBA, the 26-year-old point guard was officially presented as a new player of the Portland Trail Blazers and delivered a clear message: he wants to leave the past behind and start a new chapter both on and off the court.

The two-time All-Star stated that his arrival in Portland represents a unique opportunity to reinvent himself after several complicated years in Memphis, where injuries and off-court controversies ended up overshadowing the immense talent he had shown since entering the league.

"New home. New team. New organization. I will be able to show the Portland fans a different Ja. It's like starting from scratch," Morant affirmed during his appearance at the Las Vegas Summer League.

The shooting guard also wanted to address the image that has been created about him following the incidents involving firearms that led to two NBA suspensions in 2023.

"My image. That I’m a bad guy. I am Ja. I did what I did in the past, but it has been addressed and resolved. I don't understand why, years later, it's still the topic when nothing has happened since then."

Morant believes he has changed both personally and professionally and asserts that he arrives in Portland with a completely different mindset.

"Over the years, I have grown and learned a lot. My mindset has changed. Now I approach things differently. I feel more mature and I am ready to work."

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A New Beginning After Difficult Years

Morant's career has been a rollercoaster ride since being drafted second overall in 2019. In just four seasons, he solidified himself as one of the NBA's young stars, leading the Grizzlies to become one of the most promising teams in the West.

However, his progression was halted by several factors.

First came the NBA's disciplinary suspensions after appearing with firearms in live Instagram broadcasts. Subsequently, various physical problems arose, including shoulder and elbow injuries that even required surgical interventions.

Last season, he could only play 20 games, averaging a modest 19.5 points and 8.1 assists before getting injured again.

Nevertheless, Morant stated that he is now fully recovered.

"I have spent the last four months ensuring I am in shape and training. I feel great."

A Different Fit in Portland

His arrival in Portland is one of the most striking moves of the summer.

The Trail Blazers bet heavily on him by sending Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to Memphis, bringing in a player who, when healthy, remains one of the most explosive point guards in the entire NBA.

However, the Portland roster now presents a huge accumulation of talent in the backcourt.

In addition to Morant, the Blazers have Damian Lillard, Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Deni Avdija, raising numerous questions about minutes distribution and roles.

Far from being worried, Morant stated that he is willing to adapt to any circumstance.

"They will surely help me discover new facets of my game, and I will do the same for them. I don't think there will be a problem with us being on the court together or our minutes overlapping. We are all very generous."

Much More than Basketball

During his speech, he also touched on a more personal aspect.

Morant explained that in recent months, he has found peace by stepping away from the media spotlight and getting much closer to nature, something he considers important for his mental well-being.

He also acknowledged that he is already familiar with Portland thanks to his frequent visits to Nike's headquarters.

"[Portland] is a very peaceful place. I don't know if you've noticed lately, but I have been very connected to nature. I go for walks, ride a bike, go kayaking. I am just grateful to be alive, for what I have, and for my family. And now I have a fresh start. It is very comforting."

No Resentment towards Memphis

Although the Grizzlies decided to definitively close a chapter by trading Morant, the player made it clear that he harbors no resentment towards the franchise where he began his career.

On the contrary, he assured that he will always hold a deep affection for the city and his former teammates.

"Memphis will always be my home. I still talk to many of my former teammates."

He also explained that he fully understands the mixed reactions of some fans after his departure.

"Memphis' reaction was pure affection. There may be fans who say bad things about me, but I don't see it as hate. I see it as the genuine affection of a family member who also demands from you. I love Memphis, I love the fans, and I love my teammates. They were very good years."

Ja Morant's Statistics for the 2025-26 Season

With a new uniform, a new city, and the intention to definitively change the narrative that has accompanied his career in recent years, Ja Morant faces one of the most important chapters of his journey. Portland is betting on reviving the best version of one of the most electrifying NBA stars, while the player aims to prove that this can truly be his fresh start.