Iman Shumpert Outlines How Ja Morant Can Make His Second All-NBA Team: ‘I Don’t Want to Keep Saying What He Could Be’
Former NBA champion Iman Shumpert has never been one to hold back his opinions, especially when it comes to the next generation of talent. And when asked about Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant, Shumpert didn’t mince words. While he acknowledged Morant’s undeniable talent, he made it clear that talent alone won’t be enough to secure a second All-NBA selection — not in today’s league, and not with Morant’s current trajectory.
“I don’t want to keep saying what he could be,” Shumpert said during a recent interview. “I want to talk about what he is. And right now, Ja is at a crossroads.”
Shumpert praised Morant’s explosive athleticism, court vision, and leadership when he’s locked in. He’s already been an All-NBA player once, and according to Shumpert, there’s no reason he can’t get back there — if he’s willing to evolve both on and off the court.
“He’s got everything you need to be a superstar in this league,” Shumpert said. “But superstars don’t just show up on highlight reels. They lead. They stay out of the headlines for the wrong reasons. They grow up.”
The “wrong reasons” are a clear reference to Morant’s off-court controversies in recent years — incidents that led to suspensions, fines, and criticism from analysts, fans, and even his peers. For Shumpert, it’s not about judgment; it’s about accountability.
“I don’t want to see him waste this window,” he added. “We don’t all get second chances in this league, especially not with the spotlight that’s on him.”
To make his second All-NBA team, Shumpert believes Morant needs to make three critical changes:
1. Consistency in Leadership
Shumpert emphasized that being the face of a franchise means more than just scoring points. “He has to be a leader every day — in practice, in the locker room, in the community. That’s how you earn respect.”
2. Off-Court Discipline
“You can’t be elite if you’re a distraction,” Shumpert said bluntly. “He has to cut the noise. The league is watching. The media is watching. His teammates are watching.”
3. Defensive Commitment
While Morant’s offensive highlights get all the attention, Shumpert pointed out that true All-NBA players impact both ends of the floor. “He’s got the tools. Now he has to want it.”
Ultimately, Shumpert said he speaks from a place of hope, not criticism. “I want to see him win. I want to see him prove people wrong — not just once, but every night.”
As the 2025–26 NBA season approaches, Ja Morant will have the chance to rewrite his story. The talent is there. The spotlight is still bright. But as Shumpert put it best: “I don’t want to lie to the kid. Greatness takes more than just skill — it takes sacrifice.”