Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. addressed the growing speculation surrounding Ja Morant in a postgame interview Friday, acknowledging the emotional strain of trade discussions. “The business of basketball, it takes a toll,” Jackson said, reflecting on how the rumors have affected the team.
Jackson described his relationship with Morant as close, calling him “my brother” and emphasizing empathy for the point guard. “He still showed up to the game. He’s still around. You can understand the mood of something like that,” Jackson said, noting the intensity Morant faces as a highly visible star.
When asked about the challenge of navigating trades, Jackson said, “It’s a challenging thing every single time. You don’t get used to it because it’s dependent on what the move is and who the person is… probably something better than cubicles. That sounded pretty bad. But you know, it’s never going to feel good.”
Jackson also shared candid thoughts about the Grizzlies’ performance in the 117-116 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, admitting defensive lapses late in the game. “Just they got too easy. Too easy defense-wise, too easy with buckets they were getting… we were giving up some stuff offensively. Got to get better. Got to learn from that,” he said.
On a lighter note, Jackson explained his celebratory gesture after hitting a three-pointer. “Oh, ‘cause he does it. It was fire. That was good. I did with my wrong hand. I should have went my right hand, but I was like, ‘Oh, you know.’”
Regarding a key play in the final seconds, Jackson took accountability. “I let him down right there… I double thought for a second about something. I should have just came clap for the ball… that’s on me, man,” he said.
The context for Jackson’s remarks comes as the Grizzlies are reportedly willing to at least entertain offers for Morant, signaling a potential shift from their long-standing stance of keeping him untouchable. While no trade is imminent, league sources indicate Memphis is quietly exploring possibilities ahead of the February 5 trade deadline.
“He changed my life coming here… that side of the game plays out like it plays out. No matter what, he’s my brother,” Jackson said, highlighting the personal impact behind the headlines.
Memphis, now 16-22, continues its struggle with injuries and inconsistency, having lost six of seven games, including Friday’s narrow defeat despite Jackson’s 23 points and seven rebounds. Morant remains sidelined, leaving both his availability and future with the team in question.
