In a season devoid of Zion Williamson so far, Ja Morant has picked up the slack as the NBA’s most exciting rookie – and the rising Memphis star came close to what would have been a legendary highlight against the Cavaliers on Friday night.
Just a few minutes into the fourth quarter in Cleveland, Morant grabbed a loose ball just behind the three-point line, took a few strides down an open lane and launched into the air, attempting to throw down a towering tomahawk slam over 6-foot-8 Cavaliers forward Kevin Love, who was established outside of the restricted area to take a charge.
Morant came close to vaulting Love entirely, but get his right leg over Love’s head and failed to finish the dunk.
JA MORANT: attempted murder on Kevin Love đł
pic.twitter.com/i4nUCQbplT— NBA Quick Reportâ˘đ (@NBAquickreport) December 21, 2019
The officials didn’t call a charge on Morant and let play continue. Even though Morant didn’t complete the hurdle, the attempt was stunning from every angle.
Dear lord, Ja Morant almost destroyed Kevin Lovepic.twitter.com/GFt3tRsZwU
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 21, 2019
Morant actually pulled off this same play in college.
Remember this Ja Morant dunk in college? pic.twitter.com/aYHOhbrmAP
— Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) December 21, 2019
[vertical-gallery id=879984]
[jwplayer pM4gsJbs-q2aasYxh]