Ja Morant to Face Memphis Grizzlies for First Time
The Trail Blazers host the undefeated Grizzlies at the Moda Center on October 29, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Basketball
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Ja Morant faces his former Memphis squad for the first time since his June 2026 trade to the Portland Trail Blazers on October 29, 2026. The matchup brings the undefeated Grizzlies to the Moda Center as Morant suits up in a new role under Portland coach Micah Nori.
Why it matters
The high-stakes game marks a reunion for Morant after seven seasons in Memphis, while testing Portland’s evolving team identity and offense. It is a pivotal moment for both franchises as the Grizzlies push their early-season momentum against a Trail Blazers roster featuring 7-foot-2 center Donovan Clingan.
The Grizzlies enter the game with a 4-0 record, while the Blazers hold a 2-0 record. It remains to be seen how Portland's new offensive chemistry will fare against Memphis' current undefeated run.
The players
Ja Morant
The point guard is a former second overall NBA Draft pick who joined the Trail Blazers in June 2026.
Micah Nori
He is the current head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Ty Jerome
He is the starting point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies and the current Western Conference Player of the Week.
Donovan Clingan
He is a 7-foot-2 center playing for the Portland Trail Blazers.
Tee Morant
He is the father of Ja Morant who described the upcoming game against Memphis as a reckoning.
The details
Portland acquired Morant in June in a trade that sent Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to Memphis. Trail Blazers coach Micah Nori has assigned Morant a role distinct from the primary leadership duties he held during his seven years in Memphis. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, have leaned on starting point guard and Western Conference Player of the Week Ty Jerome to lead their current unbeaten streak.
Timeline
June 2026: Memphis traded Ja Morant to Portland.
October 29, 2026: Grizzlies play the Trail Blazers at home in Portland.
February 2027: The teams are scheduled to meet twice.
Beyond the Bridges
This game highlights the ongoing movement of talent originally selected in the 2019 NBA Draft. It marks a significant departure from the stability Morant enjoyed in Memphis, shifting the focus of both his career and the Grizzlies’ rebuilding strategy.
Fans heading to the Moda Center on October 29 should anticipate a high-energy atmosphere as the Trail Blazers face their toughest early-season test. Spectators should plan for standard game-night traffic near the Rose Quarter as Portland looks to protect its undefeated record.
The takeaway
Watch how the Trail Blazers' offensive transition game develops against an undefeated Grizzlies squad currently led by Ty Jerome. Keep an eye on the February 2027 schedule, as the two teams are slated for two additional rematches that will further define the season for both clubs.
Further reading
Follow the latest team news and standings in our Basketball coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Commercial Appeal.
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