In a season devoid of Zion Williamson so far, Ja Morant has picked up the slack as the NBA’s most exciting rookie – and the rising Memphis star came close to what would have been a legendary highlight against the Cavaliers on Friday night.
Just a few minutes into the fourth quarter in Cleveland, Morant grabbed a loose ball just behind the three-point line, took a few strides down an open lane and launched into the air, attempting to throw down a towering tomahawk slam over 6-foot-8 Cavaliers forward Kevin Love, who was established outside of the restricted area to take a charge.
Morant came close to vaulting Love entirely, but get his right leg over Love’s head and failed to finish the dunk.
The officials didn’t call a charge on Morant and let play continue. Even though Morant didn’t complete the hurdle, the attempt was stunning from every angle.
Morant actually pulled off this same play in college.
