Ja Morant has always been synonymous with wearing the number 12 shirt but he has adopted a new one at the Portland Trail Blazers.
Morant has been assigned the number 12 jersey after they acquired the two-time NBA All-Star in a trade deal from the Memphis Grizzlies.
A post from the Trail Blazers confirmed the news, saying: “12 turns to one,” with one key decision denying him the number he has always worn.
Why Ja Morant will wear the number one jersey at the Trail Blazers
According to Jason Quick of The Athletic, Morant was told that he wouldn’t be able to wear his trademark number as the organization “has other plans”.
A new number means new beginnings though and the 26-year-old believes that this could be the perfect chance to “start fresh”.
He said: “New home. New team. New organization. I get to show the fans in Portland a different Ja. It’s like starting all over again…
“Over the years, I’ve grown a lot and learned a lot. My mindset changed. I go into things differently now. I feel more mature, and I’m ready to work.”
Ja Morant’s message to the Memphis Grizzlies
After six seasons with the Grizzlies, Morant told their supporters that there was no ill feeling and he will always have positive memories of the franchise.
“Was all love,” Morant said. “It’s some [fans] that might say bad things about me. I don’t look at it like it’s hate or anything.
“I just look at it as tough love from a family member. I have family members that do the same thing. I love Memphis, I love the fans, I love my teammates. … It definitely was some good years.”
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