Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has made headlines off the court with a powerful act of philanthropy.
The 25-year-old NBA guard has invested $3.6 million to transform a large estate in Memphis into a state-of-the-art shelter and support center for homeless youth across Tennessee.
The facility, which will be called “Morant House,” is set to open later this year. It will offer housing, meals, educational resources, mental health support, and career training for youth aged 14 to 24 who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming unhoused. The property will also include recreation areas, mentorship spaces, and a full-time staff trained in trauma-informed care.
In a statement, Morant said, “This is about giving young people a second chance and a safe place to grow. I’ve been blessed with a platform and I want to use it to make a real difference in my community.”
The initiative has garnered widespread praise from fans, civic leaders, and fellow athletes alike. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee commended the move, calling Morant’s commitment “an act of compassion that will ripple across generations.” Memphis Mayor Paul Young added, “This is bigger than basketball. Ja is investing in the future of our city.”
Morant, who has faced public scrutiny in the past, emphasized that this effort reflects a broader journey of growth. “I’ve learned from my mistakes,” he said. “Now I want to use my blessings to uplift others.”
As construction begins, Morant hopes to not only create a lasting impact in Tennessee but to inspire other athletes, celebrities, and community leaders to invest in youth-focused solutions. “This is just the beginning,” Morant emphasized. “If one shelter can make this kind of impact, imagine what we could do if we all stepped up.”
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