BREAKING NEWS: NBA Star Ja Morant Invests $3.6 Million to Transform Tennessee Property into Safe Haven for Homeless Youth
Tennessee – April 14, 2025 — NBA sensation and Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing youth homelessness in his home state. The 25-year-old star is investing $3.6 million of his own money to transform a large property in Tennessee into a state-of-the-art safe haven for homeless and at-risk youth.
The facility, which is set to open in early 2026, will offer more than just a roof over kids’ heads. Named “The Rise Center,” the safe haven will feature fully furnished dormitories, mental health counseling, academic support, career training, recreational facilities, and 24/7 staff supervision. Morant’s vision is to create not just a shelter, but a nurturing and empowering environment where vulnerable youth can heal, learn, and thrive.
“This isn’t just about providing beds—it’s about building futures,” Morant said during a press conference in Memphis. “Too many kids are out here with no one in their corner. I’ve been blessed with opportunities, and now I want to create some for those who need them most.”
The Rise Center will partner with local nonprofits, mental health professionals, and educators to provide wraparound services for up to 80 youth at a time. The goal is to help young people between the ages of 13 and 21 transition from crisis situations into stable, independent lives. Programming will include GED prep, financial literacy workshops, college counseling, vocational training, and therapeutic services—all provided free of charge.
Morant’s investment comes at a time when youth homelessness is on the rise across the U.S., with Tennessee reporting a sharp increase in unaccompanied minors in recent years. Advocates have praised the NBA star’s efforts as a much-needed lifeline.
“Ja Morant is doing something truly special,” said Tanya Rios, executive director of the Tennessee Youth Outreach Coalition. “He’s using his platform and resources not just to raise awareness, but to create real, tangible change. This could be life-saving for so many young people.”
Morant, known for his electrifying plays on the court, has also been active in off-court philanthropy. This latest initiative marks his most ambitious project to date, signaling a long-term commitment to community transformation. He hinted that this may just be the beginning, with possible expansions or similar projects in other cities down the line.
“I always say it’s bigger than basketball,” Morant said. “If I can help one kid find their path, it’s all worth it. But I’m aiming for hundreds, even thousands. We’re going to rise—together.”
As construction begins later this spring, The Rise Center is already being seen as a symbol of hope and resilience—not just for Tennessee, but for communities nationwide. Ja Morant’s bold move stands as a powerful reminder that real change begins with heart, vision, and the will to act.
