Introduction
Temetrius Jamel "Ja" Morant, born on August 10, 1999, in Dalzell, South Carolina, is a prominent American professional basketball player currently playing as a point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Known for his electrifying playing style and exceptional athleticism, Morant has quickly established himself as one of the league's rising stars.
Early Life and High School Career
Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Morant developed a passion for basketball at a young age. He began playing organized basketball at just five years old. During his high school years at Crestwood High School in Sumter, South Carolina, he showcased remarkable talent, becoming the all-time leading scorer with 1,679 points. His high school career was highlighted by averages of 27 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists per game in his final two seasons, earning him All-State honors and recognition as a three-time All-Region Most Valuable Player23.
Despite his impressive high school performance, Morant was lightly recruited by NCAA Division I programs and was unranked by major recruiting services. This lack of attention led him to commit to Murray State University in Kentucky, where he would begin to make his mark on college basketball.
College Career
At Murray State, Morant's talents flourished. In his freshman year (2017-2018), he averaged 12.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, earning All-Conference honors. However, it was during his sophomore season (2018-2019) that he truly shined. Morant led the NCAA in assists per game and became the first player in NCAA history to average over 20 points and 10 assists per game in a season. His standout performances included multiple triple-doubles and a memorable showing in the NCAA tournament. Morant's exceptional play garnered national attention and solidified his status as a top prospect for the NBA Draft. In June 2019, he was selected second overall by the Memphis Grizzlies.
Professional Career
Morant made an immediate impact in the NBA during his rookie season (2019-2020), averaging 17.8 points and 7.3 assists per game. His performance earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award. In his second season (2020-2021), he continued to impress by leading the Grizzlies to the playoffs for the first time since 2017 and averaging 19.1 points and 7.4 assists per game.
Throughout his career, Morant has been recognized for his achievements with several accolades, including being named to the All-Rookie First Team and earning All-NBA Second Team honors in 202234. However, his career has faced challenges as well; he missed significant time due to injuries and suspensions during the 2022-2023 season but aims to bounce back strong in subsequent seasons.
Personal Life
Morant is known for his strong family ties; he credits much of his success to the support of his parents, Tee and Jamie Morant. He remains active in community initiatives and is seen as a role model for aspiring athletes
Ja Morant's journey from a small-town athlete to an NBA superstar exemplifies hard work, determination, and resilience—qualities that continue to inspire fans around the world.
Undervalued Ja Morant Rookie Cards
10. 2019 Select Ja Morant Concourse Rookie Card #72
Description: The 2019 Select Ja Morant Concourse Rookie Card #72 is a striking representation of one of the NBA's most electrifying young talents. Part of the Select series, this card features a dynamic image of Morant in action, showcasing his athleticism and flair on the court as he dons his Memphis Grizzlies uniform. The Concourse level is known for its vibrant colors and sharp design elements, including sleek borders and a textured finish that enhances its visual appeal. With Morant's name prominently displayed, this card is not only a must-have for fans but also a prized piece for collectors looking to celebrate the early career of a future superstar.
9. 2019 Mosaic Ja Morant Rookie Card #219
Description: The 2019 Mosaic Ja Morant Rookie Card #219 is a standout piece in the collection of any basketball enthusiast and a must-have for fans of the Memphis Grizzlies' rising star. It features a vibrant mosaic design that enhances its visual impact, making it a standout in any collection. The hexagonal pattern adds depth and uniqueness, emphasizing Morant's energetic presence. As part of the Mosaic series, this card boasts a glossy Optichrome finish, enhancing its overall aesthetic and making it highly collectible.
8. 2019 Hoops Ja Morant Rookie Card #259
Description: The 2019 Hoops Ja Morant Rookie Card #259 is a standout collectible that captures the essence of one of the NBA's most electrifying talents. As a rookie card from the highly anticipated 2019-20 season, this card showcases Morant in his Memphis Grizzlies uniform, highlighting his dynamic playing style and potential as a future superstar. The design is clean and professional, embodying the classic look of the Hoops series. The background typically includes a subtle design that enhances Morant's presence without overshadowing him, allowing collectors to appreciate the details of his pose and expression. Whether you're an avid collector or just starting out, this card is a valuable addition that embodies the spirit of basketball greatness.
7. 2019 Donruss Ja Morant Rookie Card #202
Description: The 2019 Donruss Ja Morant Rookie Card #202 is a captivating piece that highlights the rising star of the Memphis Grizzlies. This card features a dynamic action shot of Morant, showcasing his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability during his impressive rookie season. The classic Donruss design includes bold colors and a clean layout, with Morant's and the Grizzlies name prominently displayed. Known for its durability and high-quality card stock, this rookie card embodies the essence of Morant’s early career and is a sought-after item for collectors looking to celebrate one of the NBA's most exciting talents. With its blend of iconic design and significance, this card is a must-have addition to any basketball card collection.
6. 2019 Illusions Ja Morant Rookie Card #161
Description: The 2019 Illusions Ja Morant Rookie Card #161 is a visually striking card that captures the dynamic energy of one of the NBA's rising superstars. Part of the Illusions series, known for its captivating designs and holographic effects, this card features a bold action shot of Morant, highlighting his speed and athleticism in his Memphis Grizzlies uniform. The background is filled with vibrant, swirling patterns that create a unique, almost ethereal effect. As a rookie card from a distinct set, it’s a valuable addition for collectors wanting to own a piece of Morant's early NBA legacy.
5. 2019 Absolute Ja Morant Rookie Card #72
Description: The 2019 Absolute Ja Morant Rookie Card #72 is a premium piece that highlights the electrifying talent of one of the NBA's brightest stars. Part of the Absolute Memorabilia series, this card features a high-quality design with sharp detailing and an action-packed image of Morant in his Memphis Grizzlies uniform. Known for its sturdy card stock and sleek finish, the card also incorporates vivid colors and bold fonts, enhancing its visual appeal. As a rookie card from a respected set, it’s a prized item for collectors who want to celebrate Morant's early days as a future NBA star.
4. 2019 Panini Chronicles Ja Morant Rookie Card #116
Description: The 2019 Panini Chronicles Ja Morant Rookie Card #116 is an exciting addition to any collection with the Grizzlies star stands flexing on the court. Behind him in the crowd is Young Dolph. Although Morant is clearly the focus of the card, the musician is still prominent on the side of the photo, sitting just behind the cameraman. Standing next to him in the orange pants is Key Glock, Dolph’s cousin who is also a rapper. Also in the background are Michael Oher’s parents and Todd Bridges.
3. 2019 Optic Ja Morant Rookie Card #168
Description: The 2019 Optic Ja Morant Rookie Card #168 is a sleek and vibrant representation of one of the NBA’s most exciting young talents. From Panini’s Optic series, this card combines a high-gloss finish with bold colors and sharp detailing, featuring a dynamic image of Morant in action with the Memphis Grizzlies. Known for its chromium stock and clean design, this card also showcases Morant’s name and team logo with a striking, modern aesthetic. As one of Morant’s premier rookie cards, it’s a prized piece for collectors who want to own a part of his electrifying journey in the NBA.
2. 2019 Panini Certified Ja Morant Rookie Card #152
Description: The 2019 Panini Certified Ja Morant Rookie Card #152 is a stunning showcase of the Memphis Grizzlies' star in his debut season. Known for its premium card stock and eye-catching design, this card features a vibrant action shot of Morant, highlighting his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability. The Certified series is recognized for its bold use of color and metallic accents, adding a sleek and modern feel to the card. With Morant's name and the Grizzlies logo prominently displayed, this rookie card is a must-have for collectors looking to commemorate the rise of one of the NBA's brightest young stars.
1. 2019 Panini Prizm Ja Morant Rookie Card #249
Description: The 2019 Panini Prizm Ja Morant Rookie Card #249 is a standout gem that captures the essence of one of the NBA's most electrifying players. Renowned for its striking design and premium quality, this card features a stunning image of Morant in his Memphis Grizzlies uniform, showcasing his explosive style of play. The Prizm series is celebrated for its vibrant colors and refractive surface, which gives the card an eye-catching shine that enhances its visual appeal. As a key rookie card from a highly sought-after set, it holds significant value for collectors and fans eager to celebrate Morant's rising stardom in the league.
Investment Potential of Ja Morant Rookie Cards
Ja Morant's rookie cards present a compelling investment opportunity for collectors and basketball fans alike. As one of the most exciting young talents in the NBA, Morant's cards have shown significant potential for appreciation in value since he was drafted second overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2019.
Pricing as of 10/03/2024:
PSA
BGS
SGC & RAW
POP Report as of 10/03/2024:
Ja Morant rookie cards present significant investment potential for collectors and investors alike, driven by several key factors:
- Rising Star Status: Since entering the NBA, Morant has quickly established himself as one of the league's most exciting young talents. His impressive performance, including winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2020, has generated substantial interest among fans and collectors.
- Market Demand: The demand for Morant's rookie cards, particularly from popular brands like Panini Prizm and Select, has remained strong. As he continues to develop and lead the Memphis Grizzlies, interest in his cards is likely to grow, potentially increasing their value over time.
- Scarcity and Rarity: Limited editions, parallel versions, and graded cards can offer additional investment potential. Cards that are graded high (PSA 9 or PSA 10) tend to fetch higher prices, and rarer parallels can attract collectors willing to pay a premium.
- Cultural Impact: Morant’s style of play and personality resonate with a younger audience, which enhances his marketability. As more fans engage with the NBA and its stars through social media, players like Morant are likely to see an increase in their popularity and, consequently, the value of their cards.
- Long-Term Potential: Investing in rookie cards is often seen as a long-term strategy. If Morant continues to perform at a high level, secure All-Star selections, or even lead his team deep into the playoffs, his cards could see significant appreciation in value.
- Diversification of Collectibles: The rise of sports card collecting as an alternative investment avenue has drawn in a broader audience. With a variety of card types available—from base cards to autographs—investors can choose options that align with their investment strategies.
Considerations
While the potential for profit is present, investing in rookie cards also comes with risks. Factors such as injuries, changes in performance, or shifts in team dynamics can impact a player's marketability and card value. It’s essential for investors to stay informed about both the player’s performance and market trends.
Overall, Ja Morant rookie cards hold considerable investment potential, especially for those who appreciate the blend of sports and collectibles. As with any investment, it's advisable to conduct thorough research and consider diversifying your collection.