With the age of guards, Stephen Curry is arguably at the top of the tier. Winning his fourth championship last season, the conquest put him in elite company. However, apart from the long-range assassin, others have taken over. One of them is the Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant. Winning the award for Most Improved, his ascent has only just begun.

Coming in as the overall number two pick in the 2019 draft, Morant has dazzled with his basketball skill set. After a quiet sophomore year, the 23-year-old put on a true masterclass. Averaging 27.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.7 assists, he became an MVP candidate. Oozing confidence, the budding star’s insane athletic feats have dazzled the NBA universe. But who did Morant model himself after?

Recently in an interview, the guard from Murray State University revealed the two stars who inspired his unique game style. Surprisingly, it wasn’t Stephen Curry, Michael Jordan, or Kobe Bryant.

Stephen Curry is not the inspiration for Ja Morant’s game

Making an appearance on ‘The Pivot Podcast’, Morant spoke about several topics. However, towards the end came the most anticipated question, which NBA players inspired the future superstar of the league growing up? Known for his freakish athleticism, Curry couldn’t make the cut. However, it wasn’t Jordan or Bryant either. Morant revealed Russell Westbrook and Allen Iverson were his biggest inspirations growing up. In addition, he also gave a special mention to Derick Rose.

Stephen Curry Once Omitted Lakers Legends Lebron James, Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant From NBA Top-5

Speaking about their fearless attitude Ja Morant said: “AI was pretty much my number one, then I became a huge Russ fan. Like I said, we going to let you hear about it. We’re coming straight at no matter who you is.” 

Trending

Shaq Makes Big Claim That Can End LeBron James’ Future With Lakers After Nuggets Series

April 17, 2024 06:48 PM EDT

Why Is Gabbie Marshall Not Invited to the 2024 WNBA Draft Despite Graduating From Iowa?

April 13, 2024 06:21 PM EDT

Is Dawn Staley Married? Details on South Carolina Coach’s Love Life and Special Bond With Lisa Boyer

March 16, 2024 06:41 PM EDT

Possible Shohei Ohtani Ban From MLB Has Shaq Questioning $700 Million Contract

April 16, 2024 05:20 PM EDT

Nate Robinson’s Tragic Situation Receives Genuine Moment of Empathy from Stephen A. Smith

April 14, 2024 10:18 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Morant’s game is arguably the perfect combination of his two idols. The legend of Russell Westbrook started during his days with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Before being a walking triple-double, Brodie’s superhuman athleticism made fans fall in love. Carrying the mean face, Westbrook left it all out on the floor. On the other hand, Iverson haunted the league despite being just 6 feet tall. The Hall of Famer would score almost at will as he cemented himself as one of the greatest scorers of all time.

However, their mentality is what separated them from the rest. Both Iverson and Westbrook are mean competitors willing to do their all to win. Likewise, Ja Morant has kept the spirit alive. Showcasing his best with the game on the line, the 23-year-old has quickly asserted himself as one of the coldest of assassins. After a pivotal season with the Memphis Grizzlies, Morant is now ready to surprise fans even more. And with his work ethic, he might even return with some new tricks.

WATCH THIS STORY: How has Stephen Curry Progressed On NBA 2K over the years? 2k23 Rating & More 

Do you think Ja Morant can be the best point guard in the NBA in the future? Let us know your views in the comments below.