BREAKING: Memphis Grizzlies Fans React in Shock as Coach Taylor Jenkins Makes Surprising Announcement That Point Guard Ja Morant Has Been Made the.. 

In a move no one in Grind City saw coming, Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins stunned fans and media alike this morning when he announced that superstar point guard Ja Morant will come off the bench to start the upcoming season.

The unexpected shift was revealed during the team’s final preseason press availability. Jenkins, who has led the Grizzlies through both playoff success and challenging rebuilds, described the decision as a “strategic adjustment to maximize lineup flexibility.”

“This is about staggering our playmakers,” Jenkins explained. “Ja remains our engine — our emotional leader — but we believe this change can give us a stronger punch across all four quarters.”

The move sparked instant outrage and confusion among Grizzlies fans, many of whom consider Morant not only the face of the franchise, but one of the NBA’s most electric talents. The 25-year-old point guard, known for his highlight-reel dunks and fearless play, has been instrumental in the team’s resurgence over the past four seasons.

Social media erupted with reactions ranging from disbelief to outrage.

“Ja coming off the bench? This better be a joke,” one fan wrote.
“This is how you lose a locker room,” another chimed in.

Speculation is already swirling about potential behind-the-scenes factors. While Jenkins insisted the decision was purely tactical — hinting that Marcus Smart may start in Morant’s place to bolster defensive intensity from tip-off — many wonder whether this signals deeper issues in team dynamics.

Morant, for his part, has reportedly accepted the role without public complaint, though his competitive nature makes it unlikely that he’ll remain on the bench long-term.

“It’s about winning,” Jenkins said. “This isn’t permanent. We’re going to evaluate game by game.”

With the Grizzlies set to open the season against the Phoenix Suns next week, all eyes will be on how this bold coaching decision plays out — and whether Ja Morant will prove too impactful to keep in a reserve role for long.

Stay tuned. Memphis may be in for a wild season.