Early Life and Education of Ja Morant: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ja Morant, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ja Morant is an American professional basketball player renowned for his dynamic play with the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. His ascent to prominence began during his college career at Murray State University, where he earned consensus first-team All-American honors in 2019. Known for his exceptional athleticism and playmaking abilities, Morant quickly established himself as a key player for the Grizzlies, garnering attention for his scoring and highlight-reel dunks. He has since become one of the faces of the franchise and a rising star in the league.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1984: Triple-Double Record

In 1984, Isacc Miles recorded the first triple-double in Murray State history.

1996: Single Season Assist Record

In January 2019, Ja Morant broke the school single-season assist record of 212 set by Chad Townsend in the 1996–97 season.

August 10, 1999: Ja Morant's Birth

On August 10, 1999, Temetrius Jamel "Ja" Morant was born. He is now a professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA.

Others born on this day/year

1999: Assists Record

In 1999, Aubrey Reese set the record for most assists at a CFSB Center game with 12 against Alabama State.

2012: NBA Tournament Reference

In March 2019, Ja Morant became the first player since Draymond Green in 2012 to record a triple-double in the NCAA Tournament.

July 2016: Discovered by Murray State

In July 2016, Ja Morant was accidentally discovered by Murray State's assistant coach James Kane at a camp while Kane was looking for a snack. Kane was impressed by Morant playing a three-on-three game and offered him a scholarship.

September 3, 2016: Commitment to Murray State

On September 3, 2016, Ja Morant committed to playing basketball for Murray State during a dinner at coach Matt McMahon's house, choosing the program where he was wanted.

November 10, 2017: Murray State Debut

On November 10, 2017, Ja Morant debuted for Murray State with 7 points and a team-high 11 assists in a 118–61 victory over Brescia University.

December 12, 2017: First Career Double-Double

On December 12, 2017, Ja Morant recorded his first career double-double with 10 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists in a 69–55 loss to Saint Louis.

2017: Unranked Recruit

In 2017, Ja Morant was not ranked by recruiting services like ESPN, 247Sports, or Rivals, and received only one high major NCAA Division I offer from South Carolina.

February 1, 2018: Season-High Scoring Game

On February 1, 2018, Ja Morant scored a season-high 23 points against Southeast Missouri State.

November 24, 2018: Multiple Triple-Doubles

On November 24, 2018, Ja Morant posted 29 points, a season-high 13 rebounds, and 12 assists in a 77–66 win over Missouri State, becoming the first Murray State player to ever record multiple triple-doubles.

January 10, 2019: Wooden Award Watch List and Assist Record

On January 10, 2019, Ja Morant was named to the midseason top 25 watch list for the John R. Wooden Award and broke the school record for most assists in a single game, with 18, against UT Martin.

August 7, 2019: Morant's Daughter Born

On August 7, 2019, Ja Morant's daughter was born.

2019: All-American Honor

In 2019, Ja Morant was recognized as a consensus first-team All-American during his sophomore year while playing college basketball for the Murray State Racers.