BREAKING NEWS: Ja Morant Stuns NBA — Rejects $475 Million Offer from Warriors, Declares “My Loyalty Lies with the Grizzlies”
By ESPN Senior Writer
July 21, 2025 — Memphis, Tennessee
In one of the most shocking player decisions in modern NBA history, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has officially rejected a jaw-dropping $475 million offer from the Golden State Warriors, choosing instead to remain with the franchise that drafted him and the city that embraced him.
The offer — reportedly a five-year max deal with performance incentives and equity options — would have made Morant the highest-paid player in Warriors history and among the top earners in league history. But in a bold move that has stunned the league, Morant turned down the deal and reaffirmed his commitment to Memphis.
“This city believed in me when I came in at 19,” Morant said during a press conference on Monday. “Through the ups, the downs, and everything in between, Memphis stayed with me. And I’m staying with Memphis.”
The Deal That Shocked the League
Sources indicate the Warriors pursued Morant aggressively during the offseason, seeking to revitalize the franchise’s title hopes as Stephen Curry nears the twilight of his career. Team executives, including GM Mike Dunleavy Jr., reportedly flew to Memphis for a private meeting with Morant and his representatives, offering the richest deal in Warriors history.
The contract would have included:
- $475 million over five years
- Ownership equity in the franchise
- Full marketing and brand support through the Bay Area tech and media network
- Opportunities to co-lead the franchise with remaining stars Klay Thompson and Draymond Green
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who was also part of the pitch, was said to be “personally invested” in bringing Morant to Golden State to usher in the next generation of Warriors dominance.
Despite the tempting offer and the allure of a global platform, Morant didn’t hesitate to say no.
“No amount of money can replace what Memphis means to me,” he said. “This is where I grew up — not just as a player, but as a man. We’re building something special here, and I want to be here when we raise that banner.”
Loyalty in a Superteam Era
Morant’s decision has sent a powerful message throughout the league — one that bucks the trend of player movement and superteam formations.
While other stars have chased rings by joining established powerhouses, Morant is choosing to double down on the core he helped build in Memphis. Alongside teammates like Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and rising star GG Jackson, Morant has led the Grizzlies to playoff contention every year since 2021.
The 2024-2025 season was his strongest yet, averaging 28.9 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, earning All-NBA First Team honors and leading Memphis to the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history.
“We’ve come a long way,” Morant said. “And we’re not done yet.”
City of Memphis Reacts
Following the announcement, celebrations erupted across Memphis, with fans flooding social media using the hashtag #LoyaltyOverLegacy, and murals of Morant being painted outside FedExForum by local artists.
Grizzlies owner Robert Pera called Morant’s decision “the defining moment in the franchise’s history.”
“Ja turned down nearly half a billion dollars to stay here,” Pera said. “That’s not just loyalty — that’s legacy. That’s leadership.”
Team president Zach Kleiman confirmed that the Grizzlies are now working on a contract restructuring that will include additional incentives and off-court partnership opportunities for Morant within the city of Memphis.
“We want Ja to not only be the face of this franchise — but the heartbeat of this city,” Kleiman said.
NBA World Reacts
Across the league, players and analysts reacted with awe and admiration.
LeBron James tweeted:
“RESPECT. Ja Morant just showed what loyalty looks like. That’s a KING move.”
Damian Lillard, who has also spent most of his career with one team, posted:
“That’s the move right there. Loyalty ain’t dead.”
Stephen A. Smith, on ESPN’s First Take, called it “a generational decision that could redefine how we view star players and loyalty in the modern NBA.”
“We live in a ring-chasing era, but Ja Morant just reminded us that greatness isn’t only about championships — it’s about impact, culture, and building something your way,” Smith said.
What’s Next?
As training camp approaches, Morant is reportedly more motivated than ever. Insiders say he’s taken a leadership role in off-season workouts and is working closely with team executives to help recruit veteran depth for a 2026 title push.
He’s also launching a new foundation called “10 Toes Down”, aimed at empowering Memphis youth through sports, leadership, and mentorship — another sign of his deeper commitment to the community he calls home.
“I’m not just staying,” Morant said with a smile. “I’m locked in.”
Final Word
At a time when massive contracts, global exposure, and championship shortcuts are often irresistible, Ja Morant just made the boldest statement of all — choosing heart over hype, loyalty over legacy, and Memphis over everything.
And in doing so, he may have just redefined what it means to be a franchise player in the modern NBA.
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