DONE DEAL: Ja Morant Signs Historic $797M Extension with Memphis Grizzlies, Cementing Future with Franchise—Secret Contract Clause Revealed
By NBA Insider Report | May 5, 2025
In one of the most astonishing and record-breaking deals in NBA history, Ja Morant has officially signed a $797 million contract extension with the Memphis Grizzlies, locking in his future with the franchise that drafted him second overall in 2019.
The landmark deal, which spans six years, not only makes Morant the highest-paid player in NBA history but also includes a secret contract clause that’s turning heads around the league.
The Deal: Breaking Barriers and Setting New Standards
Morant’s contract, announced by the Grizzlies front office Monday morning, is being hailed as a “monumental agreement” that underscores Memphis’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team around their explosive superstar. The deal includes:
- $797 million in guaranteed money
- Performance incentives pushing total value north of $850 million
- Full no-trade clause
- Player option in year six
- Equity stake in Grizzlies-affiliated ventures
The deal far surpasses recent superstar extensions and establishes a new benchmark for elite NBA contracts.
“Ja is the heart and soul of Memphis,” said Grizzlies General Manager Zach Kleiman. “He’s more than just a player—he’s a generational leader, a culture-builder, and the face of this city’s basketball future.”
A Secret Clause That Shocked the League
While the record-breaking dollar amount captured headlines, league insiders quickly turned their attention to a “lifestyle and loyalty clause” embedded deep within the contract.
According to sources close to the franchise, the clause includes a lifetime mentorship program led by Morant for Memphis youth athletes, a requirement for annual community development projects, and a guaranteed path to a front-office or ownership role upon retirement—a rarity in modern NBA deals.
“It’s not just about basketball for Ja anymore,” said longtime friend and teammate Desmond Bane. “It’s about legacy. And this deal proves that.”
Morant’s Message: “I’m Memphis Forever”
In a passionate press conference following the announcement, Morant delivered an emotional message to fans, coaches, and the city:
“They believed in me when nobody else did. Memphis raised me, shaped me, and stood by me through everything. I’m here to return that loyalty tenfold. I’m not chasing big markets—I’m building something legendary right here.”
The 25-year-old star added, “This isn’t just a contract. It’s a covenant.”
Reactions Across the NBA
Players, executives, and fans alike expressed admiration for both Morant and the Grizzlies’ bold move:
- LeBron James tweeted: “Generational loyalty. Big respect, Ja.”
- Stephen Curry: “He’s built different. Salute to the new standard.”
- Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner: “This deal is groundbreaking, not just in dollars, but in its alignment of player and community values.”
Even former players chimed in, with Allen Iverson calling the move “the realest contract I’ve ever seen.”
Building Around Morant: Grizzlies’ Roadmap to a Title
With Morant now locked in through the 2030–31 season, the Grizzlies are expected to aggressively pursue high-profile free agents and trade targets this offseason. Insiders say Memphis is eyeing a blockbuster move for a two-way wing and could potentially land a veteran All-Star to complement Morant’s high-octane play.
The team is also investing in new training facilities, expanding its analytics department, and revamping FedExForum—all designed to foster a championship environment.
“This is the beginning of the golden era of Grizzlies basketball,” said team president Jason Wexler.
Legacy in the Making
Morant’s new deal places him at the heart of Memphis basketball history—joining legends like Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol but carving a path uniquely his own. With over 10,000 career points, two All-NBA selections, and a fanbase behind him, Morant now aims for one thing: a championship.
“When the banners go up, I want to know we earned every inch of it together,” Morant said. “And I want it to say: We did it the Memphis way.”
The Ja Morant era is officially locked in. And for Memphis, it’s more than just a win—it’s the beginning of something legendary.
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