Stephen Curry Calls Ja Morant 'Pound For Pound' The Most Athletic Player In The League

Curry's declaration of Morant's greatness as an athlete also comes with a key qualifier. 

The mention of the "pound for pound" aspect suggests that, at his size, 6'2" and a lean 174lbs, Morant is capable of producing superhuman moments of physical prowess. This elevates the 25-year-old’s standing without downplaying the athleticism of bigger players.

The NBA has seen several athletes boasting tremendous physical gifts like speed, vertical jumping ability, etc. But it has also become increasingly common for such players often fade out of the league if they lack fundamental skills.

In this regard, Morant establishes himself as a significantly more holistic basketball player. While his jumping ability is noteworthy and draws attention because of the flashy plays, the Grizzlies guard is capable of many more jaw-dropping feats that cement his status as a star, regardless of his controversial nature.

Last season, Morant put up an impressive average of 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, while shooting 45.4% from the field and 30.9% from beyond the arc. Although he isn't known to be a perimeter threat typically, the guard has consistently worked towards expanding his range of scoring.

While the 25-year-old didn't earn an All-Star selection last season, he was a key figure in Memphis' campaign, helping them secure a playoff spot after a grueling run through the Play-In tournament. Unfortunately, injuries in the first round saw him sidelined, eventually leading to an early playoff exit for the Grizzlies.

Memphis was primed to be a perennial playoff side, barring injuries impacting their success. The Grizzlies will continue to build around the core of Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., but with the Desmond Bane trade this offseason, the same cannot be said for their immediate future.