Introduction: Breaking Down Ja Morant’s Contract
When it comes to rising NBA stars, few names shine as brightly as Ja Morant. Known for his explosive athleticism and fearless playmaking, Morant has quickly become the face of the Memphis Grizzlies. But beyond his highlight-reel dunks, many fans wonder about his financial standing in the league.
So, what exactly does the Ja Morant contract look like? How much is he earning, and what does his deal mean for the future of the Grizzlies? Let’s break it all down.
Ja Morant’s Rookie Contract
When the Memphis Grizzlies drafted Ja Morant with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, he signed a standard rookie scale contract. Like all top picks, his deal was based on the NBA’s rookie salary structure.
- Length: 4 years (team option on final two years)
- Value: Around $39.6 million
- Average Salary: Approximately $9.9 million per year
This rookie deal allowed the Grizzlies to build around a young superstar while still maintaining salary cap flexibility. By his second season, Morant was already an All-Star-level player, which made his next contract a hot topic.
Ja Morant’s Max Extension
In July 2022, Mo-rant officially signed his rookie max extension with Memphis. This deal cemented him as the franchise cornerstone for years to come.
Contract Details
- Length: 5 years (2023–24 through 2027–28 seasons)
- Value: $194 million (base)
- Incentives: Could increase to $231 million with All-NBA honors
- Annual Salary Range: $33–47 million, depending on incentives
This extension, often referred to as a “super-max rookie extension,” shows how valuable Mo-rant is to Memphis. If he meets certain performance criteria, like making an All-NBA team, his salary bumps even higher.
Annual Salary Breakdown
Here’s a projected breakdown of Ja Morant’s contract extension:
- 2023–24: $33.5 million
- 2024–25: $36.2 million
- 2025–26: $38.9 million
- 2026–27: $41.6 million
- 2027–28: $44.3 million
If he qualifies for the “supermax,” those numbers rise significantly, pushing the total closer to $231 million.
How Morant’s Contract Compares to Other NBA Stars
Ja Morant’s deal puts him in elite company among young superstars.
- Luka Dončić: $215 million supermax extension
- Zion Williamson: $193 million extension
- Jayson Tatum: $195 million extension
Morant’s salary aligns closely with his peers, reflecting his role as one of the league’s brightest young stars.
Impact on the Memphis Grizzlies
The Ja Morant contract is more than just numbers, it’s a statement. The Grizzlies are all-in on building around him, which influences their future roster moves.
Benefits
- Franchise Stability: Memphis knows they have their leader locked up long-term.
- Fan Excitement: Having a superstar signed ensures ticket sales, merchandise, and national TV appearances.
- Recruiting Power: Other stars may be more willing to join Memphis knowing Morant is there.
Challenges
- Salary Cap Pressure: As Morant’s contract grows, it limits flexibility for signing additional stars.
- Luxury Tax Concerns: If Memphis wants to keep a strong supporting cast, ownership may need to spend big.
Off-Court Earnings and Endorsements
While Morant’s NBA contract is massive, his endorsements add even more income. He has signed deals with:
- Nike (signature shoe line, Ja 1)
- Powerade
- BodyArmor
These deals push his total yearly earnings well beyond his NBA salary, making him one of the league’s most marketable young stars.
Risks and Considerations
No contract discussion is complete without mentioning potential risks.
- Injuries: Morant’s high-flying style puts stress on his body, which could affect long-term durability.
- Off-Court Issues: NBA contracts can include clauses that impact earnings if suspensions or violations occur.
- Performance Decline: While unlikely in the near term, every long contract carries the risk of underperformance.
Despite these factors, the Grizzlies’ decision to invest in Morant was a no-brainer given his talent and popularity.
Final Thoughts
The Ja Morant contract represents more than just dollars, it symbolizes the Memphis Grizzlies’ future. With Morant locked in for the next five years, Memphis has positioned itself as a perennial playoff contender.
Fans can expect plenty of jaw-dropping highlights, potential MVP runs, and maybe even a championship push during the life of this deal.
For now, one thing is clear: Ja Morant isn’t just the face of the Grizzlies, he’s one of the biggest investments in the NBA.
FAQs
1. How much is Ja Morant’s contract worth?
Ja Morant signed a 5-year, $194 million max extension with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2022, which could increase to $231 million with incentives.
2. When does Ja Morant’s contract end?
His extension runs through the 2027–28 NBA season, keeping him under contract with Memphis for five more years starting in 2023.
3. Can Ja Morant earn a supermax deal?
Yes. If Morant makes an All-NBA team, wins MVP, or earns other major honors, his contract value increases from $194 million to $231 million.
