The Memphis Grizzlies have been dealt an early setback to their 2025-26 campaign, with star guard Ja Morant suffering a left ankle sprain during practice on Sunday. The team is listing him as “week-to-week,” according to Damichael Cole of the Memphis Commercial Appeal.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Memphis, who are set to begin their preseason schedule against the Detroit Pistons on Monday night before tipping off the regular season on October 22 against the New Orleans Pelicans. The two-time All-Star’s injury means there’s now serious doubt he’ll be ready for opening night.
Cole reported that the Grizzlies “considered the two-time All-Star ‘week-to-week,’” following the incident, marking another blow to a team already juggling multiple injury concerns.
The Grizzlies’ frontcourt depth has taken a beating this offseason. Jaren Jackson Jr., who signed a five-year, $240 million extension, is recovering from foot surgery to repair a turf toe injury. Zach Edey is still working his way back from surgery on his left ankle, while Brandon Clarke recently underwent an arthroscopic knee procedure to address synovitis and isn’t expected to be re-evaluated until late October or early November.
Cole noted that Morant’s absence “would be downright brutal” for a Memphis roster already stretched thin. The Grizzlies traded longtime backcourt partner Desmond Bane to Orlando this summer, leaving Morant as the clear offensive engine after averaging 23.2 points and 7.3 assists per game last season.
In the meantime, Memphis will likely turn to Scotty Pippen Jr. and Ty Jerome to handle point guard duties. Pippen’s playmaking and defense impressed in limited minutes during the team’s playoff run, while Jerome joined the Grizzlies on a three-year, $28 million deal after a breakout season with Cleveland.
Morant’s injury adds to what’s becoming a familiar theme for the franchise, early adversity. Whether he’s back by opening night or not, Memphis will need to tread carefully with their superstar’s recovery.
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