Photo: Peter Baba

Ja Morant made a strong statement in his return to action Sunday, guiding the Memphis Grizzlies to a win over the Orlando Magic in the NBA London Game.

Playing his first game after a lengthy absence, Morant looked like his old self, setting the tone early and clearly standing out as the most impactful player on the floor.

After the game, the player addressed the ongoing trade speculation that has followed him in recent weeks while speaking with Marc Stein, making it clear where his loyalties lie.

“I’m a very loyal guy,” Morant said. “I got a (Grizzlies) logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be.”

Although reports have surfaced about internal tensions and Memphis being open to potential offers, the guard has never publicly expressed a desire to move.

League sources have indicated that while the Grizzlies are open to conversations, traction on the trade front has been limited, and Morant’s performance in London only reinforced his value – and his desire to remain in Memphis.