Please refer to Ja Morant as “Headband 12” from now on.
That’s how the Memphis Grizzlies rookie was introduced in the starting lineup, per his request, at FedExForum Wednesday night as his squad hosted the Portland Trail Blazers.
The second overall pick broke out the headband for the first time this season, tallying 20 points and nine assists during the 111-104 win over Damian Lillard & Co. Maybe it was the headband, or maybe not, but the performance punctuated a strong season heading into the All-Star break.
Morant helped the Grizzlies to their 28th win of the season, which already tops the preseason over/under set by various Las Vegas sportsbooks. As a result, the Grizz find themselves in eighth place in the Western Conference and two games above .500 for the first time this season.
y’all feeling HEADBAND 12 ?? 😅👀 pic.twitter.com/GvRy2GneGu
— Ja Morant (@JaMorant) February 13, 2020
As “Headband 12” begins to catch on, Morant and his teammates have debuted a new celebration: The goggle celebration.
Morant imitated wearing goggles with his hands after dishing out a number of assists throughout the victory on Wednesday. He has apparently done it a few times this season but saw a young fan doing it and decided to keep it going.
Tony Allen (FIRST TEAM ALL DEFENSE) showing some goggle love for Ja's offense in that first half. Eye Ball to Eye Ball. pic.twitter.com/d0XeTTGqSZ
— joe rondone (@joerondone) February 13, 2020
With the Grizzlies heading into the All-Star break on a high note, Morant may keep the look around for the time being. He will participate in the NBA Rising Stars Game on Friday, and could very well take home MVP honors if “Headband 12” shows up.
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