In a move that cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in program history, Murray State University has announced plans to unveil a statue of NBA star and former Racer Ja Morant outside the university’s basketball arena.
Murray State to Honor NBA Star Ja Morant with Arena Statue
In a move that cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in program history, Murray State University has announced plans to unveil a statue of NBA star and former Racer Ja Morant outside the university’s basketball arena.
The announcement marks a historic moment for the university and its athletics program, celebrating Morant’s meteoric rise from a lightly recruited college prospect to one of the NBA’s brightest stars. The statue will stand outside the CFSB Center, home to Murray State basketball, where Morant’s electric performances captivated fans and brought national attention to the Racers.
A Lasting Tribute
Morant played two seasons for Murray State from 2017 to 2019, leading the Racers to two NCAA Tournament appearances and earning All-American honors in his sophomore year. That season, he averaged 24.5 points, 10 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game — becoming the first player in NCAA history to average at least 20 points and 10 assists over a full season. His unforgettable triple-double in the 2019 NCAA Tournament opener against Marquette solidified his status as a future NBA star.
“Ja Morant’s impact on Murray State goes far beyond the court,” said university president Dr. Bob Jackson. “He inspired a generation of fans, elevated our program to new heights, and represented the Racer spirit with humility and determination. This statue is a symbol of our gratitude and a permanent reminder of what can be achieved with hard work and belief.”
From Racer to Superstar
Selected second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies, Morant quickly established himself as a dynamic force in the league. He won NBA Rookie of the Year in 2020 and has since become a multi-time All-Star, known for his explosive athleticism, fearless playmaking, and highlight-reel dunks.
Despite his rapid rise to fame, Morant has remained closely connected to his alma mater, frequently giving credit to Murray State for shaping his career. “Murray State believed in me when a lot of schools didn’t,” Morant once said. “It’s home. It’s where everything started.”
A Community Celebration
The statue unveiling ceremony is expected to draw alumni, fans, and basketball figures from across the country. Details on the design and installation timeline are forthcoming, but officials say it will depict Morant in his Racer uniform in an iconic pose — likely mid-dunk or celebrating a signature play.
Athletic Director Nico Yantko said the statue will serve as a rallying point for future generations. “Every young player who walks past that statue will know what’s possible,” Yantko said. “Ja’s story is proof that greatness can come from anywhere — even from a small town in Kentucky.”
As the university prepares to honor one of its most storied athletes, one thing is clear: Ja Morant’s legacy at Murray State is already set in stone. Soon, it will be set in bronze.
