Ja Morant Steals The Show At Trail Blazers Fan Fest

Ja Morant did not waste any time giving Portland Trail Blazers fans a glimpse of what they can expect from him this season. Sunday’s Fan Fest was the first real opportunity for many fans to see Morant in a Trail Blazers uniform, and he quickly made sure the afternoon would be one to remember. From an impressive 360 layup to a half court make, Morant brought plenty of his trademark athleticism to the Moda Center. One play in particular stood out.

Morant’s ability to create spectacular plays has been a major part of his game throughout his NBA career, and that explosiveness was on full display Sunday. Even in a preseason scrimmage that was more about entertaining the fans than playing fundamentally sound basketball, Morant provided the type of moments Portland supporters have been waiting to see. He wasn't finished there.

With the scrimmage tied at 96-96 following regulation, the two teams settled the game with a halfcourt shootout. Players from each side took turns trying to knock down a shot from beyond halfcourt, with the first team to make one without the other team answering winning the game. After several misses, Morant stepped up and delivered.

The new Trail Blazers guard knocked down the halfcourt attempt to give the Black Team the win, immediately sprinting around the court to celebrate with his teammates and the fans. It was about as fitting of an ending as Portland could have asked for during Morant’s first Fan Fest appearance. The fans clearly agreed.

Morant was voted Fan Fest MVP after his performance, adding another memorable moment to an afternoon that was already filled with them. He showcased his athleticism, provided plenty of excitement and ultimately hit the shot that decided the scrimmage.

While a Fan Fest scrimmage obviously isn't an indication of what will happen once the regular season begins, Morant's performance provided another reason for excitement surrounding Portland's new-look backcourt. With Damian Lillard also back in a Trail Blazers uniform, the anticipation around the team's guard combination is growing.

Morant's first major introduction to Rip City could hardly have gone better. He gave the fans a show, won the MVP award and ended the day by hitting a halfcourt game-winner.

Now, Portland fans are getting an early taste of what Ja Mania could look like in the 2026-27 season.