Ja Morant Wins $365K After Restaurant Chain Breaches Marketing Deal

Overview

An arbitrator has ruled that Wing Guru, a Memphis-based restaurant chain, owes Ja Morant, star player of the Memphis Grizzlies, $365,525.30 due to a breach of their marketing agreement.

The Agreement

On January 1, 2022, Morant entered a marketing agreement with Wing Guru, which operates five locations in Memphis and one in Atlanta. The terms included:

• $75,000 annual payment in monthly installments of $6,250.
• Permission to use Morant’s identity in various print, audio-visual, and social media campaigns.

Breach of Contract

Morant claims that payments stopped just four months into the agreement, yet Wing Guru continued to use his name and likeness for promotional purposes. The company allegedly extended its use of his identity beyond the agreed contract territory of Memphis.

Attempts to Resolve

Morant sent several letters and emails requesting payment for the overdue amounts, but Wing Guru failed to respond.

Arbitration Outcome

In May 2023, Morant filed for arbitration, claiming breach of contract. The arbitrator determined he was owed $365,525.30 for unjust profits earned by Wing Guru, totaling about $225,000.

Next Steps

Despite being given 90 days to object, Wing Guru did not respond. On December 18, 2024, Morant filed a petition to affirm the arbitrator's ruling.