Guard Ja Morant’s Epochal Open Letter to the Memphis Grizzlies, Fans, and the Entire Grizzlies Community
Dear Memphis.
With every beat of my heart, I write this letter to express my heartfelt love and admiration to a city and a family that have welcomed me from the beginning. Memphis is more than just a place where I play basketball; it is also where I matured as a man, a professional, and a member of a community that never gave up, even in the face of storms. This is a thank you to the Grizzlies organization, the fans who have stood strong through every season, and the city that has given me more than I could have expected.
When I first walked into FedExForum wearing the Grizzlies shirt, I felt a sense of expectation—but also of affection. You spotted more than one player. You saw promise. You saw energy. You saw family. I was greeted warmly right away. I was simply a child with a dream, and you gave me the room to make that goal a reality.
Thank you to the Grizzlies organization for believing in me—not only for what I could bring to the court, but also for the leader you saw in me. Your belief in me through the highs and especially the lows has meant everything. You have never given up on me. You challenged, encouraged, and stood by me. That kind of trust is uncommon, and I do not take it lightly.
Memphis, you are not just a backdrop to my work; you are the reason I am who I am. You taught me to fight with tenacity, love with purpose, and never lose sight of my identity. Your spirit, soul, and culture run through me every time I lace up my sneakers.
As I look forward to continue our adventure, please know that I am carrying you with me. I do every dunk, assist, each moment of progress for you. And I’m doing it because of you.
Ja Morant
Memphis Grizzlies
#GrindCityForever.