Home » NBA » Shaq backs Ja Morant to be in the MVP race after another stunning performance

Ja Morant, in the opinion of Shaquille O’Neal, merits more MVP consideration 

Ja Morant has received praise from NBA icon Shaquille O’Neal for his accomplishments this year. O’Neal claimed that the young Memphis Grizzlies standout merits MVP recognition while praising Ja Morant’s ascent to superstardom in the NBA. Shaq stated, “When you talk about how hard work pays off…wasn’t no high draft pick, wasn’t really talked about in high school, but the kid can flat out play.”

Ja Morant MVP
Image Source: Complex

In recent months, Ja Morant has drawn a lot of interest. With him on the court, the Memphis Grizzlies have been playing an outstanding brand of basketball, so that is deserved.

The Grizzlies and Denver Nuggets are tied for first place in the West with a 30-13 record each. Like the previous season, Morant’s ascent to popularity has been a major factor in their success. Morant is a captivating and divisive figure thanks to the combination of his talent, agility, and flair with his outspoken and unashamed nature.

Ja Morant’s influence on the team

Memphis appears to have taken on many aspects of Morant’s demeanor. While the Grizzlies have always been known for their grind-and-grind style of play, Morant has all but started a new era and identity for Memphis.

It’s difficult to ignore his impact on the group. It’s tough to downplay what Morant is accomplishing to elevate the Grizzlies to among the West’s most competitive squads in 2023 with the club on a run.

Ja Morant MVP
Image Source: USA Today

O’Neal became one of many who paid attention to Ja Morant’s ascent to fame. Given his contributions to the team’s recent victories, O’Neal claimed that Ja Morant deserved to be addressed in the MVP discussion. Morant is undoubtedly a superstar with the Grizzlies after also winning Rookie of the Year.

More: Kevin Durant’s Brooklyn Nets have a surprise record after new coach takeover and Kyrie Irving antisemitic drama