It’s been a rough few months for the Memphis Grizzlies this season. Before the final stretch of December, the Grizzlies’ locker room imploded when star point guard Ja Morant expressed his issues with the team’s coaching staff.
In particular, Morant had issues with Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo. This led to Morant’s suspension for conduct detrimental to the team. Since then, the Grizzlies have struggled to find their stride, contributing to a poor start to the season.
However, an NBA insider recently revealed that the situation may be turning, as there has been a positive development between Morant and Iisalo.
Ja Morant and Grizzlies HC Tuomas Iisalo’s Relationship is Improving
According to NBA insider Damichael Cole, Morant and Iisalo are slowly working things out. Cole reported that the two are making progress in their relationship and are finding common ground.
“Talks between Ja Morant & Tuomas Iisalo are progressing in a positive direction. The coach talked about finding a happy medium after conversations with his point guard,” Cole reported on X.
Talks between Ja Morant & Tuomas Iisalo are progressing in a positive direction. The coach talked about finding a happy medium after conversations with his point guard.
Also, Jaren Jackson Jr. feels like he’s settling in after a slow start.
Story: https://t.co/nGdM7uFUbJ
— Damichael Cole (@DamichaelC) December 27, 2025
That appeared to be the case after Morant returned to the lineup Friday when the Grizzlies faced the Milwaukee Bucks.
The star point guard delivered a strong performance, posting a double-double with 17 points and 10 assists in limited minutes due to injury management.
Throughout the season, Morant has dealt with nagging injuries, including a right calf strain and a subsequent left ankle sprain. Those issues have limited him to just 15 games so far this season.
However, Iisalo is making an effort to help Morant manage his health, which has contributed to the improvement in their relationship.
“I think both of us were very happy that he was able to express himself fully and then still not have those long stretches where he’s off the court or on the bench,” Iisalo said after the Grizzlies beat the Bucks 125-104.
Given the shift in dynamics between the two, the Grizzlies could see positive results moving forward, potentially helping them climb the Western Conference standings.
Entering Sunday night’s contest against the Washington Wizards, the Grizzlies hold a 15-16 record and stand ninth in the Western Conference. Following that game, they return home on Tuesday to close the year against the Philadelphia 76ers before opening 2026 with two road matchups against the Los Angeles Lakers.
