Tee Morant: The Guiding Force Behind Ja Morant's NBA Stardom

Garrick Hickle 06 Jul 2025

In the high-octane world of professional basketball, where dazzling dunks and game-winning shots often steal the spotlight, the figures behind the scenes—the parents, mentors, and coaches—play an equally crucial, though often less celebrated, role. Among these foundational figures, Tee Morant, the father of Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant, stands out as a particularly prominent and influential presence. His journey, from a high school basketball player to a dedicated father, has intricately woven itself into the fabric of his son's remarkable rise to NBA fame.

The story of Ja Morant's success is not just about his innate talent or relentless hard work; it is also a testament to the unwavering guidance and support he received from his parents, Tee and Jamie Morant. Their combined efforts, particularly Tee's hands-on involvement, have been instrumental in shaping Temetrius Jamel Morant into the dynamic point guard he is today. This article delves deep into the life of Tee Morant, exploring his background, his pivotal role in Ja's development, his often-visible courtside presence, and his reactions to the challenges his son has faced.

The Man Behind the Star: Tee Morant's Biography
Tee Morant's Personal Data and Biodata
The Roots of Greatness: Tee and Jamie's Influence
A Father's Hand in Ja Morant's Development
- Early Guidance and Basketball Foundations
- The Transition from Dalzell to NBA Stardom
Courtside Presence and the Spotlight
- The Passion and the Ejections
- Public Perception: A Critic and a Proud Parent
Reacting to Challenges: Tee on Ja Morant's Suspensions
Beyond the Court: Tee Morant's Entrepreneurial Spirit
The Unbreakable Bond and Future Outlook

The Man Behind the Star: Tee Morant's Biography

Tee Morant, whose full name is Temetrius Jamel Morant, is far more than just "Ja Morant's dad." He is a figure who has garnered significant public interest due to his son's meteoric rise and his own distinctive presence. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Tee Morant's life before his son's fame was rooted in a different kind of craft and passion. He was a former barber, a profession that often involves close community ties and a keen understanding of people, perhaps unknowingly preparing him for the public scrutiny that would come with his son's NBA career.

His athletic background is equally noteworthy. Tee Morant was a basketball player himself, showcasing his skills at Claflin University. Interestingly, he was also a high school teammate of NBA legend Ray Allen, a detail that highlights his own pedigree in the sport. This personal experience with competitive basketball undoubtedly provided him with invaluable insights into the game, which he would later pass on to his son. His mother is Saundra E. Dawson, and his father is simply referred to as Mr. Dawson in some records. This blend of a humble upbringing, a practical trade, and a strong athletic foundation forms the core of Tee Morant's identity, influencing his approach to parenting and mentorship.

Tee Morant's Personal Data and Biodata

For those eager to delve into the background of Tee Morant, here's a quick overview of his key personal details:

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	Temetrius Jamel Morant (also known as Tee Morant)
Age	Currently 47 years old
Date of Birth	Born in 1978 (exact date not widely publicized)
Place of Birth	Memphis, Tennessee, United States
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	African American
Parents	Saundra E. Dawson (Mother), Mr. Dawson (Father)
Spouse	Jamie Morant
Children	Ja Morant (son), Teniya Morant (daughter)
Occupation	Former Barber, Entrepreneur, Celebrity Family Member
Education	Claflin University (Basketball)

The Roots of Greatness: Tee and Jamie's Influence

The journey of Ja Morant from Dalzell, South Carolina, to NBA stardom is a remarkable narrative of talent meeting opportunity, but it is fundamentally underpinned by the unwavering support and guidance of his parents, Tee and Jamie Morant. Temetrius Jamel Morant was born on August 10, 1999, to this dynamic duo. His mother, Jamie, was herself a formidable athlete, having played point guard in high school and softball in college. This shared athletic DNA from both parents provided Ja with a natural predisposition for sports, but it was their active involvement that truly nurtured his potential.

While Tee often takes the public spotlight, Jamie's role as a former point guard herself meant she understood the intricacies of the game and the demands placed on a player. Together, they created an environment where basketball was not just a hobby but a passion to be pursued with dedication. Their combined experiences, both on and off the court, allowed them to offer a holistic approach to their son's development, balancing athletic training with life lessons. This strong parental foundation is a recurring theme in the success stories of many athletes, and the Morants exemplify this bond.

A Father's Hand in Ja Morant's Development

It is widely acknowledged that Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant wouldn't have grown into the NBA star he is today without the guidance of his dad, Tee. Tee Morant's involvement in his son's basketball journey was profound and multifaceted, extending far beyond typical parental encouragement. He was not just a fan; he was a coach, a mentor, a critic, and a constant source of motivation. This hands-on approach to Ja Morant's development is a cornerstone of their story.

Early Guidance and Basketball Foundations

From a young age, Tee Morant took an active role in shaping Ja's basketball skills. He built a basketball court in their backyard in Dalzell, South Carolina, where he would put Ja through rigorous training sessions. These weren't just casual shootarounds; they were intense, focused drills designed to hone Ja's athleticism, ball-handling, and shooting. Tee's own background as a basketball player meant he understood the fundamentals and the dedication required. He pushed Ja to improve, often playing one-on-one games against him, providing direct competition and feedback.

This early, consistent guidance was crucial, especially given Ja's relatively late emergence on the national recruiting scene. While other top prospects were being scouted from middle school, Ja Morant's talent blossomed under his father's tutelage, away from the immediate glare of the national spotlight. Tee's commitment ensured that Ja's foundational skills were exceptionally strong, preparing him for the higher levels of competition he would eventually face.

The Transition from Dalzell to NBA Stardom

Tee Morant's role didn't diminish as Ja progressed from high school to Murray State University and eventually to the NBA. He remained a constant presence, offering advice, critiques, and unwavering support. His guidance helped Ja navigate the complexities of college basketball recruitment, the NBA draft process, and the immense pressures of professional sports. Tee understood the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic and a humble attitude, lessons he consistently imparted to his son. The transition from a small town like Dalzell to the global stage of the NBA is immense, and Tee Morant provided the stable anchor that Ja needed during this transformative period.

He wasn't afraid to be a tough critic when necessary, ensuring Ja remained grounded and focused on continuous improvement. This balance of being a supportive father and a demanding coach has been a defining characteristic of Tee Morant's influence, contributing significantly to Ja Morant's professional success and maturation as a player.

Courtside Presence and the Spotlight

Tee Morant's presence at NBA games has become almost as recognizable as his son's electrifying play. He is frequently seen courtside, often animated and vocal, fully immersed in the game. This visible presence has made him a subject of considerable intrigue for those eager to delve into his background, a fascination that mirrors the one directed at Ja himself. His courtside demeanor is a clear reflection of his passion for basketball and his deep emotional investment in his son's career.

The Passion and the Ejections

While his passion is undeniable, Tee Morant's courtside presence has occasionally led to controversial moments. He is known for being vocal, sometimes directing comments towards opposing players, fans, or even the officiating crew. One notable incident occurred during a Saturday night home loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, when Tee Morant, the father of Grizzlies star Ja Morant, was removed from the stands in the late fourth quarter for making disrespectful comments about the officiating crew.

The NBA later released a statement from crew chief Josh Tiven, who explained the reason for the ejection and the specific remarks made by Tee. This incident highlighted the fine line between passionate support and disruptive behavior, bringing Tee Morant under intense scrutiny. Despite such moments, his consistent presence underscores his unwavering commitment to his son, even if it sometimes lands him in the headlines for reasons beyond Ja's on-court performance.

Public Perception: A Critic and a Proud Parent

Tee Morant's public image is complex. To many, he is the epitome of a proud, supportive parent, a visible symbol of the family values that ground Ja Morant. He is often seen celebrating his son's successes with exuberance and defending him fiercely. However, his outspoken nature and occasional controversies have also led to some criticism, with some suggesting his courtside antics can be a distraction. Despite these differing views, one thing remains clear: Tee Morant is deeply invested in his son's career and is not afraid to show it.

He embraces his role as both a critic and a proud parent, openly discussing Ja's performances and offering his unvarnished opinions. This blend of fierce loyalty and candid assessment has solidified his unique position in the NBA landscape, making him a figure that fans and media alike often discuss.

Reacting to Challenges: Tee on Ja Morant's Suspensions

The journey of an NBA superstar is rarely without its hurdles, and Ja Morant has faced significant challenges, including multiple suspensions. During these difficult periods, Tee Morant's reaction and support have been crucial. While specific detailed statements from Tee regarding each suspension are not explicitly provided in the data, the general understanding of his role as a guiding force implies a strong, supportive, yet likely firm, response.

As a father who has been deeply involved in his son's development and career, Tee Morant would undoubtedly view these suspensions as significant setbacks, not just for Ja's career but also for his personal growth. His reaction would likely involve a blend of concern, disappointment, and a renewed commitment to guiding Ja through these difficult times. Given his history of being a "critic" as well as a "proud parent," it's reasonable to infer that Tee would have engaged in serious conversations with Ja, emphasizing accountability and the importance of learning from mistakes. His role would shift from simply a basketball mentor to a life coach, helping Ja navigate the immense pressures and responsibilities that come with being a high-profile athlete.

These moments test the strength of the bond between father and son, and Tee Morant's consistent presence throughout Ja's career suggests he would remain a steadfast source of support, aiming to help Ja emerge stronger and more mature from such experiences. His public reactions, even if subtle, would likely convey a message of continued belief in his son's character and potential, coupled with an acknowledgment of the need for growth and change.

Beyond the Court: Tee Morant's Entrepreneurial Spirit

While his most visible role is that of a supportive father to an NBA star, Tee Morant's identity extends beyond the basketball court. He is also recognized as an entrepreneur. His background as a former barber hints at a practical, self-sufficient mindset, and his current status as a "media face" and "celebrity family member" has likely opened doors to various entrepreneurial ventures. This aspect of his life demonstrates a drive and ambition that mirrors the dedication he instilled in his son.

The transition from a local barber to a figure with national recognition is a testament to the ripple effect of his son's fame, but also to Tee's ability to navigate and leverage that spotlight. His entrepreneurial spirit, though not extensively detailed in public records, suggests a proactive approach to life and a desire to build something beyond just his son's athletic achievements. This adds another layer to the multifaceted persona of Tee Morant, showcasing him as an individual with his own aspirations and endeavors.

The Unbreakable Bond and Future Outlook

The relationship between Tee Morant and Ja Morant is a powerful example of a father-son bond forged through shared passion, dedication, and mutual respect. Tee Morant's journey, from his own basketball career and humble beginnings as a barber to becoming a prominent figure in the NBA landscape, is intrinsically linked to his son's success. He has been a constant, guiding presence, shaping not only Ja's skills on the court but also his character off it.

As Ja Morant continues his career with the Memphis Grizzlies in the National Basketball Association (NBA), Tee Morant will undoubtedly remain a significant part of his life. Whether he's cheering courtside, offering candid critiques, or providing quiet counsel during challenging times, Tee's influence is a foundational element of Ja's journey. Their story serves as a compelling reminder that behind every celebrated athlete, there are often unsung heroes—parents like Tee Morant—whose unwavering support and guidance are truly invaluable.

In conclusion, Tee Morant is much more than just "Ja Morant's dad." He is a complex, passionate, and influential figure whose life experiences and dedication have played a critical role in nurturing one of the NBA's most exciting talents. His story highlights the profound impact a parent can have on a child's dreams, proving that true stardom is often a family affair. We encourage you to share your thoughts on the impact of parental guidance in sports in the comments below, or explore other articles on our site detailing the lives and careers of prominent figures in the NBA.

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