“I didn’t know how to feel about (Blazers) for the first night” – Jerami Grant discusses his companionship with Damian Lillard & his roller-coaster journey in NBA

It's been a roller-coaster NBA journey for veteran forward Jerami Grant. But now, the talented wing is thriving as a member of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Grant, in his ninth season, started to blossom as an intriguing talent during his time with the OKC Thunder from 2016 to 2019. Eventually, Grant spent the 2019-20 season with the Denver Nuggets, cementing himself as one of the NBA's top versatile wings. In 2020, Grant bet on his basketball ability, signing a three-year, $60 million contract with the rebuilding Detroit Pistons.

It was a gamble for Grant, who had never been more of a connecting piece on a roster. In his first season with the Pistons, Grant averaged 22.3 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. The gamble paid off, as Grant got respect league-wide as a more complete player.

It got the attention of the Portland Trail Blazers, who made a move this offseason to acquire the 28-year-old forward. Although Portland was struggling as well, Grant knew his new situation could be the best for him.

Grant sat down with NBA insider Shams Charania of The Athletic to talk about his NBA journey. Jerami said he didn't know how to feel about finding a role with the Trail Blazers at first.

"I didn't know how to feel about it for the first night, but once I settled down and my emotions moved out of the way, I realized this is a better situation for me," Grant said. "To be able to blossom still in my role, being one of the main guys but being able to win in that situation."

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Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant impressing in 2022-23

Jerami Grant and the Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers have been one of the pleasant surprises around the NBA to start the season. Just one year after finishing 27-55, Portland is a Western Conference-leading 10-4.

At the heart of the rapid turnaround has been none other than Jerami Grant. The 28-year-old forward has proved to be a fantastic addition for the Trail Blazers. Grant is averaging 21.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 2.5 apg. He's shooting 50.6% from the field, including a career-best 49.3% from 3-point range.

Portland continues to be one of the league's most underrated teams. With superstar point guard Damian Lillard running the show, the Blazers have continued to go toe-to-toe with some of the league's best.

The Trail Blazers are coming off a 117-110 win on Tuesday night against the San Antonio Spurs, with Grant finishing with 29 points and eight rebounds.

Portland will look to keep the momentum going on Thursday night as they welcome the struggling Brooklyn Nets (6-9). The Blazers have won four of their last five games and are starting to build confidence.