Memphis Grizzlies forward Cam Boozer had spent only a few days with the organization when everything changed.
When the Grizzlies selected Boozer with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft, he said Ja Morant was one of the first things that came to mind when he thought about the franchise. Four days later, Morant was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, signaling the start of a new era in Memphis before Boozer had even suited up for his first Summer League game.
“Obviously I didn’t know it was going to happen,” Boozer said July 2. “Ja is a great player. It’s not our decision to make. It’s the front office’s (decision). I think we got a great young core. I think that’s what they’re looking to build off of, so I think (the future) is really exciting.”
“Obviously it sucks to lose a guy as good as Ja, what he’s done for the city and the team, but it’s part of the business,” he added.
With Morant gone, Boozer is expected to become one of the players helping lead the Grizzlies into their next chapter. That process begins in NBA Summer League, where Memphis opens play July 4 in Salt Lake City before beginning its Las Vegas schedule July 10.
Boozer’s demeanor throughout the whirlwind week has reflected one of the traits scouts consistently praised throughout the draft process: his poise.
That calmness was on display before the Memphis Redbirds’ game at AutoZone Park on July 2. Despite not having thrown a baseball “in a minute,” Boozer confidently walked to the mound and delivered what he called a “solid” ceremonial first pitch.
Cam Boozer throwing out the first pitch today at AutoZone Park pic.twitter.com/bn0HkAQKqq
— Damichael Cole (@DamichaelC) July 3, 2026
Another decision hasn’t changed despite Morant’s departure.
Boozer has worn No. 12 for most of his basketball career, including his lone season at Duke. Before Morant was traded, Boozer announced he would instead wear No. 27 to honor his mother, who wore the number while playing college volleyball.
Although No. 12 is now available, Boozer said he plans to stick with No. 27.
“Yeah, for sure,” Boozer said. “I did it for my mom. Going to stick with it this year and maybe for a couple of years. We’ll see if things change, but I’m liking 27 honestly.”
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Cam Boozer reacts to Ja Morant trade as Memphis Grizzlies begin new era
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