BREAKING NEWS: Murray State University to Unveil Statue Honoring College Sensation Ja Morant…In a move that cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in program history, Murray State University has announced plans to unveil a statue of NBA star and former Racer Ja Morant outside the university’s basketball arena. The bronze statue, set to be placed at the entrance of the …. view more

BREAKING NEWS: Murray State University to Unveil Statue Honoring College Sensation Ja Morant

In a move that cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in program history, Murray State University has announced plans to unveil a statue of NBA star and former Racer Ja Morant outside the university’s basketball arena.

The bronze statue, set to be placed at the entrance of the CFSB Center, will immortalize Morant’s electrifying presence on the court and his profound impact on the university’s athletic program. The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for a date yet to be announced, coinciding with the 2025 Racer Hoopalooza weekend. This event will also honor the 2025 Hall of Fame class, further celebrating the university’s rich basketball heritage.

Ja Morant’s journey from a small-town sensation in Dalzell, South Carolina, to NBA stardom is a testament to his dedication and talent. During his two seasons with the Murray State Racers from 2017 to 2019, Morant led the team to back-to-back Ohio Valley Conference championships and two NCAA Tournament appearances. He became the first player in college basketball history to average over 20 points and 10 assists per game in a season, setting a new standard for excellence. His triple-double against Marquette in the 2019 NCAA Tournament further solidified his place in college basketball history.

Following his college success, Morant was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies as the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. He was named NBA Rookie of the Year in 2020 and Most Improved Player in 2022, earning multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA honors. His achievements have brought invaluable exposure to Murray State University, making him a beloved figure among Racer Nation.

The decision to honor Morant with a statue reflects the university’s recognition of his significant contributions to its athletic legacy. Director of Athletics Nico Yantko expressed that “Ja Morant will always be one of the first names to come up” when discussing the all-time greats at Murray State, highlighting the lasting impact of his career.

As the unveiling date approaches, anticipation builds among fans and alumni eager to witness the tribute to a player who not only excelled on the court but also inspired countless individuals with his journey from humble beginnings to NBA stardom. The statue will serve as a lasting reminder of Ja Morant’s extraordinary legacy at Murray State University.