Ja Morant’s ankle injury ignites concern over Memphis Grizzlies’ fragile start to the new season | NBA News
Ja Morant is down with a left ankle sprain suffered during practice, adding to a growing list of preseason injuries. The Grizzlies say it’s not serious, but the timing couldn’t sting more. Between roster changes and key players still recovering, this hiccup could slow their rhythm before the season even starts.
Ja Morant suffers left ankle sprain during Memphis Grizzlies practice
On October 5, 2025, Ja Morant suffered a left ankle sprain while practicing with the Grizzlies. The Memphis Grizzlies announced the injury the following day, October 6, 2025, indicating that Morant would be out for a week or so.A spokesperson for the team communicated this information to the media after the event. They mentioned to reporters that the sprain took place during practice and would limit Morant’s immediate playing time, but they didn’t go into specifics about how the injury occurred.In basketball, this kind of injury happens quite a bit, usually due to awkward landings or quick direction shifts. As for Morant, the team hasn’t shared any video or detailed descriptions of the play, choosing instead to concentrate on how long his recovery will take.
Additional injuries plaguing the Memphis Grizzlies
With Morant’s injury, the Grizzlies’ list of health problems just keeps getting longer. Rookie center Zach Edey is unavailable after undergoing an ankle procedure, and forward Brandon Clarke is out due to a knee surgery. Both players have been confirmed to miss the beginning of the season, according to the injury report released with Morant’s update on October 6, 2025.On top of that, forward Jaren Jackson Jr. is on the mend after toe surgery, and his return date is still up in the air. The team spokesperson mentioned these details in the same announcement, saying they’ll keep a close watch on Jackson’s status, but they didn’t specify when he might return.This set of injuries influences various positions, ranging from the frontcourt to the backcourt, challenging the team’s depth early in the preseason.
Memphis Grizzlies reshuffle lineup after Desmond Bane trade and Ja Morant injury setback
Since Ja Morant isn’t available, the Grizzlies are exploring different options for the point guard position. Ty Jerome, who just signed, along with Scotty Pippen Jr., are set to take on the bulk of the duties during the preseason. Rookie Javon Small will also have more chances to prove himself on the court.In their injury update from October 6, the team laid out these adjustments, with the spokesperson informing the press that the coaching staff would count on these players to fill in the gaps.The Grizzlies have changed their roster this offseason, including trading guard Desmond Bane, to center their strategy around Morant and Jackson as main players. This approach, highlighted in team press releases and offseason discussions, was designed to improve Morant’s playmaking with supporting talent, but the injuries are now making them rely on backups and newcomers sooner than expected.This sprain is a real bummer for Morant, interrupting his offseason focus on staying durable. His earlier remarks to reporters about making health a priority now really show how this setback could impact team chemistry and their early-season play.While it’s not a season-ending injury, the week-to-week status means they’ll have to keep a close eye on things, since Morant’s return is key to avoiding a rough start against tough teams.Also Read: “I’d easily be among the best” — Scottie Pippen doubts whether Luka Doncic or Nikola Jokic could compete against him
