BREAKING NEWS:
Ja Morant Inks $27 Million Powerade Deal – Donates $11 Million to the Saints to Spark Community Transformation
Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant has made headlines not only for securing a major endorsement deal but for turning part of that windfall into a remarkable act of generosity.
The electrifying 25-year-old guard has officially signed a $27 million multi-year endorsement deal with Powerade, the global sports drink brand. But it’s what he did next that is capturing the hearts of fans and communities across the country.
Shortly after inking the lucrative contract, Morant announced that he would be donating $11 million of his earnings to a faith-based outreach and development organization known as The Saints, a group focused on transforming urban communities, with a special focus on Memphis and underserved areas across Tennessee and Mississippi.
A Powerful Partnership: Morant x Powerade
Powerade, a long-time competitor in the sports drink market, has been aiming to revamp its brand by aligning with high-energy, high-impact athletes. Ja Morant, known for his explosive dunks, fearless court presence, and deep connection with youth culture, fits that mold perfectly.
“Ja isn’t just a highlight reel,” said Powerade’s marketing executive Sarah Rollins. “He embodies resilience, hope, and influence — and that’s exactly the type of energy we want to fuel. We are beyond thrilled to have him lead the next generation of athletes with Powerade.”
The deal includes commercial campaigns, exclusive product collaborations, youth sports investments, and digital content aimed at empowering young athletes.
Giving Back in a Big Way
However, Morant’s personal mission went far beyond just product sponsorships. At the official signing event in Memphis, Morant shocked reporters and guests by announcing that nearly half of the deal — $11 million — would be going straight to The Saints initiative.
“Basketball gave me a way out, but not every kid gets that shot,” Morant told a packed room of journalists, city officials, and youth athletes. “This money isn’t just a check — it’s a seed. I’m planting it in the same streets that raised me, and I believe it’s going to grow into something beautiful.”
The funds will be directed toward youth empowerment programs, including:
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After-school basketball and mentorship camps
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Education and scholarship funds
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Mental health and counseling services
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Faith-based community centers
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Neighborhood renovation projects
The Saints: Faith in Action
The Saints is a rapidly growing nonprofit grounded in Christian values, focused on equipping the next generation with both spiritual and practical tools. The organization’s founder, Pastor Raymond Ellis, broke down in tears upon hearing Morant’s announcement.
“This kind of blessing doesn’t come every day,” Ellis said. “Ja isn’t just giving money — he’s giving hope. This donation will help us reach thousands of young people who are stuck in cycles of poverty, violence, and hopelessness. God is moving through Ja Morant today.”
According to Ellis, the funds will allow The Saints to expand their reach into five new cities and build three state-of-the-art youth centers by the end of 2026.
Reactions Pour In
Social media exploded with praise for Morant’s heartfelt gesture.
“Ja Morant just showed the world what real leadership looks like,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “This man is changing lives, not just games.”
Even NBA Commissioner Adam Silver weighed in, calling the move “a powerful example of what it means to use your platform and your prosperity for good.”
A New Chapter for Morant
This move comes as Morant continues to rise not only as a basketball phenomenon but as a cultural force. After a challenging 2023-2024 season marked by both triumph and controversy, the young star has been quietly refocusing, staying out of negative headlines and rededicating himself to the community that shaped him.
“This is just the beginning,” Morant said. “I’ve made mistakes. I’ve learned. And now, I want to build. Not just for myself, but for every kid watching, every parent praying, and every neighborhood dreaming.”
Final Thoughts
With one hand, Ja Morant grabbed a powerful corporate opportunity — with the other, he gave back to the people. In a sports world often consumed by contracts and controversy, this move feels like a refreshing, human story of purpose and redemption.
And if this is just the start of Morant’s next chapter, the world better be watching — because the man isn’t just playing basketball anymore. He’s changing the game.
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