Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr. entered the NBA when he was just 19 years old. Drafted fourth overall by Memphis in 2018, Jackson made his first All-Star appearance in 2023. Jackson also won the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year award, with the 24-year-old forward being one of the most versatile defenders in the league.
Jackson and star point guard Ja Morant have formed one of the best duos of young players in the NBA in recent memory. After finishing as the second seed in the Western Conference two years in a row before last season, which was marred by injuries, Memphis has produced some very high-level teams behind Morant and Jackson.
In a recent article on X, Jackson reflected on his time with the Grizzlies. In response to his teammate, Morant said he better not go anywhere.
it’s better not to go anywhere either
—Ja Morant (@JaMorant) September 1, 2024
It appears that both Morant and Jackson could remain in Memphis for their entire careers. While it’s too early to make definitive predictions for either player, both seem to genuinely enjoy playing in Memphis and around each other.
This will be a very interesting season for the Grizzlies as they look to get back into the Western Conference playoff race. It won’t be easy with the talent in the West, but the Grizzlies feel they have something to prove.
Ja Morant. Desmond Bane. Jaren Jackson Jr.
The best trio of young guys in the NBA. You can have the Thunder, the Rockets or whoever you want. To me, when those three are healthy and cooking together, they’re the best in the league. pic.twitter.com/Df26wqpOXW
— Parker VB (@parkervb901) July 15, 2024
With Morant playing just nine games last season, the star point guard is hungry for a big year.
Ja Morant excites Memphis Grizzlies fans in latest practice footage
Eight-year NBA veteran and former Grizzlies player joins new team in Portugal
Ja Morant reacts to viral LeBron James-Steph Curry moment during USA-France game