BREAKING NEWS: Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo make a surprising statement that Ja Morant, PG who is also the best player as …….. …..view more

 BREAKING NEWS: Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach Tuomas Iisalo Makes Surprising Statement on Ja Morant

MEMPHIS, June 23, 2025 – In a moment that stunned both fans and analysts, newly appointed Memphis Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo delivered a bold endorsement of franchise star Ja Morant, calling him “not only our best player but the system itself.”

The statement came during a pre-draft press conference, where Iisalo was asked about his vision for the team heading into the 2025–26 season.

 Iisalo’s Exact Words:

“Ja Morant is not just the best player on this roster—he’s the engine. Our identity, our tempo, our unpredictability—it all flows from him. We’re building this team to complement what he does best.”

 Why It’s Surprising

While Ja Morant’s talent is unquestioned, this level of praise is notable because:

• Iisalo is known for his system-first, team-oriented coaching background from Europe, which traditionally emphasizes ball movement over individual dominance.
• Earlier in the season, there were reports of tension between Morant and the coaching staff, with Ja expressing frustration over the offense being too rigid.
• The Grizzlies were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, sparking speculation that the team might shift toward a more balanced offensive approach—not further centering Morant.

 The Bigger Picture

Iisalo’s comments signal a philosophical shift: rather than asking Morant to adjust to a system, the system will now revolve around Morant.

 What This Means for the Grizzlies:

• Roster Moves: Memphis may now target players in the draft and free agency who can run with Morant’s high-speed, improvisational style—athletic wings, pick-and-roll bigs, and floor-spacers.
• Offensive Strategy: Expect a more dynamic, open-court system designed to amplify Morant’s strengths—particularly his downhill explosiveness, vision, and flair.
• Locker Room Leadership: This public validation could empower Morant to embrace a more vocal leadership role heading into training camp.

Team Building Around Ja

The Grizzlies’ top priorities this offseason include:

• Reinforcing the frontcourt, likely with a mobile center through the draft.
• Finding a secondary ball-handler to ease Morant’s load and extend his availability.
• Reestablishing chemistry between Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., the team’s other All-Star cornerstone.

 Final Take

Tuomas Iisalo’s message is loud and clear: Ja Morant isn’t just the face of the franchise—he’s the foundation of the playbook. As the team prepares for the 2025 NBA Draft and a crucial bounce-back season, the Grizzlies are doubling down on their electrifying point guard.

Whether it leads to a postseason resurgence or puts added pressure on the young star, one thing is certain—Memphis is Ja’s team, now more than ever.

…view more updates on grizzlies.com

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