Rapper Lil Wayne has voiced his opinion on Ja Morant's potential as the future face of the NBA, endorsing the Memphis Grizzlies star despite recent disciplinary issues. Morant, who returned from a 25-game suspension, faced controversy after a video showing him with a gun was posted online. Despite off-field challenges, Morant has proven to be a standout player for the Grizzlies.
In a recent interview, Lil Wayne expressed his belief that Ja Morant is the "obvious answer" to become the face of the NBA once LeBron James retires. Wayne emphasized the entertainment factor in basketball and highlighted Morant's impact on the court, describing him as a key player for a competitive Memphis team.
Lil Wayne tells @TaylorRooks why Ja should be the face of the NBA after LeBron 👀 pic.twitter.com/Ne1ZJpckp4
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 22, 2023
According to Lil Wayne, the NBA is built on entertainment, drawing parallels with past iconic players like Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, and Clyde Drexler. He praised Morant's competitive spirit and the excitement he brings to the game. Wayne mentioned that fans tune in to watch Morant and his team compete, highlighting the star's significance in the league.
Ja Morant, drafted as the No. 2 overall pick in 2019, quickly made a name for himself, earning accolades such as the 2020 NBA Rookie of the Year and the 2022 Most Improved Player. Despite his on-court success, Morant has faced legal challenges, including a lawsuit accusing him of assaulting a teenager during a pickup game in 2022. The lawsuit alleges that Morant punched the teen, Joshua Holloway, during the game.
The legal proceedings are ongoing, with Morant's defense team arguing for immunity from the lawsuit, claiming self-defense. The court is yet to rule on the matter. Meanwhile, Morant continues to make headlines for his performances on the basketball court, recently delivering a buzzer-beater against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Lil Wayne's endorsement adds to the ongoing discussion about the future of the NBA and potential successors to LeBron James as the league's face. While Morant's talent is widely recognized, his off-court controversies remain a topic of scrutiny. As the NBA landscape evolves, the role of rising stars like Ja Morant in shaping the league's narrative becomes increasingly significant.