Ja Morant Stays Home: Why He Turned Down the Timberwolves’ $688 Million Offer to Stay in Memphis
A Franchise-Altering Decision
Ja Morant had the chance to make NBA history. A reported $688 million contract offer from the Minnesota Timberwolves would have been the largest deal in professional basketball history—an unprecedented sum that could have reshaped the league. Yet, in a move that stunned many, Morant declined the offer and chose to remain in Memphis, reaffirming his loyalty to the franchise that drafted him.
While the financials were staggering, Morant’s decision wasn’t just about money. His choice highlights the deep connection between a superstar and his city, the legacy he’s building, and the long-term vision for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Let’s take a deep dive into the factors that influenced this historic decision.
1. Memphis Is Home
When Ja Morant was drafted second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Memphis embraced him as their own. The city, known for its grit and resilience, found the perfect representative in Morant—a fearless, high-flying point guard with a relentless work ethic. Over the years, Morant has repeatedly expressed his love for the city.
“Memphis is more than a team to me—it’s family,” Morant said in a statement following his decision. “This is where I was given a chance, where I’ve grown, and where I want to bring a championship.”
For many athletes, the allure of a bigger market or a more lucrative contract is tempting. But Morant’s bond with Memphis goes beyond basketball. His impact is felt throughout the community, from youth camps to charity work, and he takes pride in representing the city on and off the court.
2. The Business of Basketball: Why Money Wasn’t Everything
At first glance, rejecting $688 million seems unthinkable. That contract would have shattered NBA records. However, NBA contracts come with complexities beyond just the dollar amount.
Morant is already on a five-year, $231 million max extension with Memphis, which secures his financial future. Additionally, endorsement deals from brands like Nike and Powerade continue to elevate his earnings. Given the NBA’s salary cap structure, moving to Minnesota might not have provided as much financial security as it seems.
Additionally, a deal of that size would have forced the Timberwolves to make significant roster changes. Minnesota, already managing max contracts for Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns, would have struggled to build a championship-caliber team under the league’s financial restrictions.
Morant, recognizing this, chose legacy over money—a rare move in today’s NBA landscape.
3. Memphis Is Building a Championship Contender
While Minnesota’s offer was eye-popping, Memphis remains one of the most promising young teams in the NBA. With a core featuring:
Jaren Jackson Jr. (Defensive Player of the Year)
Desmond Bane (Elite shooter and rising star)
A strong supporting cast built for long-term success
…the Grizzlies have positioned themselves as perennial contenders.
Memphis has already proven they can compete at the highest level. In the 2021-22 season, they won 56 games, tied for the best record in franchise history, and reached the Western Conference Semifinals. Injuries and suspensions have slowed their progress in recent seasons, but the front office has continued to invest in championship aspirations.
For Morant, leaving Memphis would mean starting over with a new team. Instead, he trusts the Grizzlies’ vision and believes that his best shot at a championship is in the city that drafted him.
4. Loyalty and Legacy
NBA stars have increasingly prioritized ring-chasing and superteams, but Morant’s decision follows a different path.
By staying in Memphis, he has the opportunity to become the greatest player in franchise history—a legacy similar to what Dirk Nowitzki built in Dallas or Giannis Antetokounmpo is creating in Milwaukee.
Winning a championship with the team that drafted you carries a different weight. Morant understands that if he delivers a title to Memphis, his name will be forever etched in NBA history.
For comparison:
Kevin Durant left Oklahoma City in pursuit of rings but received criticism for joining a dominant Warriors team.
LeBron James faced backlash for “The Decision” but redeemed his legacy by winning in Cleveland.
Giannis Antetokounmpo resisted superteams and delivered Milwaukee’s first title in 50 years, solidifying his legacy.
Morant, still just 25 years old, is setting himself up to define an era in Memphis basketball.
5. Timberwolves: A Tempting Offer, but Not the Right Fit
Minnesota’s offer was bold, but did it really make sense for Morant?
While the Timberwolves have a talented squad, featuring:
Anthony Edwards (one of the best young scorers in the league)
Karl-Anthony Towns (an elite big man)
A strong defensive presence in Rudy Gobert
…they still haven’t proven they can win at the highest level.
Minnesota’s playoff struggles in recent years suggest that they aren’t quite title-ready. Adding Morant would have made them an immediate contender, but at what cost? The financial constraints of such a massive contract would have forced them to part with key role players—something Morant likely saw as a red flag.
Ultimately, it wasn’t just about money or talent—it was about stability, culture, and the right fit.
What’s Next for Morant and Memphis?
By turning down $688 million, Morant has solidified himself as one of the most loyal stars in the game. But what does this mean for the Grizzlies moving forward?
1. Contract Stability
Morant remains under contract with Memphis for the foreseeable future. While a supermax extension could be in play later, the Grizzlies now have clarity to build around him.
2. Championship Aspirations
With Morant committed, the front office can continue constructing a championship roster. Look for Memphis to make aggressive moves in free agency or via trade.
3. The Morant Legacy
If Morant brings Memphis its first NBA title, this decision will be remembered as one of the most significant in franchise history.
Conclusion: A Star’s Defining Moment
In an era where players chase the biggest contracts and the brightest lights, Ja Morant’s decision to stay in Memphis is a refreshing reminder of loyalty and legacy.
Turning down $688 million wasn’t just about the money—it was about finishing what he started in Memphis. With his talent, the city’s support, and the Grizzlies’ vision, Morant is betting on something even bigger than a paycheck—a championship and a place in history.
Now, it’s up to him and the Grizzlies to prove that staying home was the right choice.