The Memphis Grizzlies’ franchise underwent a remarkable transformation in just one year. As of late April 2025, the Grizzlies’ key trio of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. had guided the squad into the playoffs, where they will meet the Oklahoma City Thunder. Fast forward to April 27, 2026, and these three old teammates were in the same location, but the story had changed. This time, Morant and Jackson were courtside at the Kia Center, supporting Bane, who has subsequently been traded to the Orlando Magic.
During their five-season relationship in Memphis, Morant, Bane, and Jackson played critical roles in transforming the squad into a formidable contender in the Western Conference. During their time, the squad had a memorable trip to the Western Conference semifinals in 2022, as well as two years in which it earned the No. 2 seed in the conference. Despite their promise, their progress stalled when the Thunder swept them in the first round of the playoffs last season, resulting in a considerable rebuild of the team.
The transition began in June 2025, when Bane was traded to Orlando, bringing an end to a historic period for the Grizzlies. Although Morant and Jackson remained in leadership positions as the franchise moved forward, Jackson was traded before the February trade deadline after early-season performances fell short of expectations. Morant is now the sole member of the group still with the Grizzlies, but speculation about his future in Memphis has grown. Since January, the company has supposedly been receptive to trade proposals for Morant.
Looking back, Morant, Jackson, and Bane were chosen as first-round selections in consecutive seasons from 2018 to 2020, demonstrating the team’s emphasis on establishing a solid foundation. Morant and Jackson have received awards for their on-court contributions, including All-Star selections, while Bane played an important role in the team’s sole playoff series triumph over the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2022.
As the NBA environment changes, both fans and experts will be watching closely to see how the Grizzlies adjust to their new reality and what the future holds for Morant in this fast-changing industry.
