Rumors can travel faster than facts – especially when they involve a superstar athlete. That’s exactly what happened this week with Ja Morant, after a viral TikTok post falsely claimed the Memphis Grizzlies guard had been diagnosed with lung cancer. The claim triggered widespread concern among fans before being quickly debunked.

There is no truth to the rumor. Ja Morant has not been diagnosed with lung cancer, and the story originated from a manipulated screenshot and a fabricated social media post.

Viral hoax fuels confusion around Ja Morant’s health

The false narrative began circulating after a TikTok user shared an edited image of what appeared to be a tweet allegedly posted by Morant’s father. The image claimed Morant had received a “tough diagnosis” and would miss the season due to lung cancer, even including a Bible verse to make the message seem authentic.

However, no such tweet ever existed.

The screenshot was digitally altered, and Morant’s official account shows no post resembling that message on the date referenced. Despite the lack of credibility, the video quickly amassed tens of thousands of views and thousands of interactions, spreading panic among fans who believed the claim was real.

The confusion was amplified because Morant had recently exited a game against the Atlanta Hawks mid-match, leaving fans wondering about the severity of his condition. That gap in information gave the rumor room to grow.

To be clear: Morant’s early exit had nothing to do with cancer.

The real injury: Ja Morant’s UCL sprain

The confirmed issue is a sprained ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in Morant’s left elbow. The Memphis Grizzlies announced that the two-time All-Star will miss at least three weeks before being re-evaluated.

This injury occurred during the Grizzlies’ narrow 124-122 loss to the Hawks earlier this week. According to the team, Morant will rest and undergo treatment before doctors determine a return timeline.

This setback is just the latest in what has been an injury-interrupted season for the 26-year-old guard. Morant had previously missed six games with a calf issue before returning to action in a recent win over the Orlando Magic.

Through 20 games this season, Morant is averaging 19.5 points, 8.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds, continuing to be the centerpiece of Memphis’ offense when healthy.

Why Morant’s rumor spread so quickly

Health scares involving high-profile athletes often gain traction because fans are already aware of their injury history. Morant’s repeated absences this season made the viral post seem believable at first glance. Add in an emotional tone, religious reference, and a convincing layout, and the hoax had all the ingredients to mislead.

But once the source was investigated, the story quickly fell apart.

There is no medical report, no team statement, and no credible source suggesting Morant is dealing with anything beyond an elbow ligament sprain.

For now, Ja Morant is focused on recovery – not fighting a life-threatening illness. And as the Grizzlies prepare to re-evaluate him in three weeks, fans can rest assured that the only battle he’s facing is getting back on the court healthy.