In the realm of basketball, height is often considered a crucial factor in determining an athlete’s potential success. However, the rise of players like Isaiah Thomas and Spud Webb have proven that size isn’t everything. One player who has been defying this conventional wisdom is Ja Morant, the 6’3″ point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies.

Despite not standing as tall as some of his counterparts, Morant has become one of the most exciting players to watch in recent years. Not only does he possess incredible speed and agility on the court, but his vertical jump is also remarkable. Many fans and analysts alike have been quick to attribute his success to these physical attributes. However, a closer examination reveals that Morant’s height and vertical jump are not necessarily what make him such a formidable opponent on the court.

Defying Conventional Wisdom

Basketball has long been known as a sport that favors tall players with impressive vertical jumps. However, there are always those who challenge stereotypes and achieve success beyond the limitations imposed by conventional wisdom. One such player is Ja Morant, whose height and vertical jump have been the subject of much scrutiny since his rise to prominence in the NBA.

Despite being only 6’3″ tall, Morant has established himself as one of the most electrifying players in the league. Known for his lightning-fast speed and ability to jump out of the gym, he has consistently defied expectations and proven that size isn’t everything. In fact, his lack of height has helped him develop a unique style of play that relies on agility and quickness rather than brute force.

Morant’s success serves as a reminder that basketball is not just about physical attributes like height and vertical jump, but also about skill, strategy, and mental toughness. While these factors may be harder to quantify than physical traits, they are equally important in determining a player’s ability to succeed at the highest level. Morant’s rise to stardom is proof that hard work, dedication, and a willingness to challenge stereotypes can pay off in unexpected ways.

In the end, it is clear that while height may confer certain advantages on the basketball court, it is by no means a prerequisite for success. As we will explore further in the next section, there are many other factors that come into play when evaluating a player’s potential impact on the game. Whether it’s through their creativity, their grittiness, or their sheer determination to succeed against all odds, players like Ja Morant prove time and again that they are capable of achieving greatness regardless of their physical stature.

The Importance Of Height In Basketball

Defying Conventional Wisdom, we must acknowledge that height and vertical jumps are not the be-all and end-all of basketball. Ja Morant, standing at 6’3”, has proven that one can excel in the sport despite being considered undersized. It is important to note that there are many factors that contribute to success on the court, including skill, athleticism, and mental toughness.

Height limitations should not hinder a player’s ability to perform well in the sport. In fact, history has shown us that shorter players can dominate on the court. Muggsy Bogues, standing at only 5’3”, was known for his exceptional ball-handling skills and quickness, proving that size is not always a limiting factor. Spud Webb, who stands at 5’7”, famously won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1986, showcasing his impressive jumping ability.

Although height may have its advantages in certain aspects of basketball such as rebounding and blocking shots, it is important to recognize players who have defied these limitations. Nate Robinson standing at only 5’9” has won three Slam Dunk Contests and played a key role in several NBA teams throughout his career. Isaiah Thomas also stands at just 5’9” but has been named an NBA All-Star twice.

In conclusion, while height may seem like a crucial factor in basketball performance, it is not everything. As we have seen with notable players like Muggsy Bogues and Spud Webb as well as current stars such as Nate Robinson and Isaiah Thomas- short players can dominate on the court through their unique skills and abilities. These athletes serve as examples of how size should never be used to limit one’s potential in basketball or any other area of life for that matter.

Players Who Have Proven Size Isn’t Everything

Undersized stars have been making their mark in the NBA for years. From Allen Iverson to Isaiah Thomas, players who were considered too small to compete at the highest level have proven that size isn’t everything. Instead, they rely on skill and determination to succeed. These players may not be towering over their opponents, but they make up for it with their speed, agility, and ball-handling ability.

Skill-based success is what separates these undersized stars from their larger counterparts. They may not be able to dominate in the paint like a traditional big man, but they can score from anywhere on the court. Their quickness allows them to get past defenders and make acrobatic layups or pull up for a mid-range jumper. Additionally, their ball-handling skills allow them to create space and find open shots for themselves and their teammates.

One of the most notable undersized stars in recent years is Steph Curry. Standing at just 6’3″, he has revolutionized the game with his deadly accurate three-point shooting and impressive ball handling skills. Despite being overlooked by many teams during the draft due to his size, Curry has become one of the most successful players in NBA history.

In conclusion, size may play a role in a player’s success, but it is not everything. Undersized stars have shown time and time again that skill and determination are just as important when it comes to achieving greatness in the NBA. These players rely on their quickness, agility, and skill set to compete at the highest level. Ja Morant’s rise to stardom is another example of this phenomenon – despite his height disadvantage compared to other point guards in the league, he has proven himself as one of the most exciting young talents in basketball today through his impressive athleticism and skill set.

Ja Morant’s Rise To Stardom

With an unwavering work ethic and unparalleled mental toughness, Ja Morant has risen to become one of the most exciting players in the NBA. It is no secret that Morant’s height and vertical jump are not his greatest assets on the court. However, what he lacks in physical attributes he more than makes up for with his unique skill set and relentless drive.

From a young age, Morant possessed an undeniable passion for basketball. He spent countless hours honing his craft, perfecting every aspect of his game. His dedication paid off when he was recruited by Murray State University, where he quickly made a name for himself as a standout player. Despite being overlooked by many major colleges and universities, Morant’s hard work earned him a spot in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Morant’s mental toughness is equally impressive. He possesses an innate ability to stay calm under pressure and rise to the occasion when it matters most. This was evident during his rookie season with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he led the team to their first playoff appearance in four years. Despite facing adversity throughout the season, Morant remained focused and determined, proving himself as a leader both on and off the court.

In conclusion, Ja Morant’s rise to stardom can be attributed to his tireless work ethic and mental toughness. These qualities have allowed him to overcome any physical limitations and establish himself as one of the brightest young stars in the league. In our next section, we will delve deeper into Ja Morant’s physical attributes and how they contribute to his success on the court.

The Physical Attributes Of Ja Morant

Ja Morant is a basketball player in the NBA who has been making waves with his impressive performances on the court. Despite having a height of only 6’3″, which is considered short by NBA standards, Morant has been able to hold his own against taller opponents and make a name for himself in the league. One of the reasons for this is his exceptional vertical leap, which allows him to jump higher than most players and reach for rebounds or dunk the ball with ease.

Morant’s vertical leap is one of his most remarkable physical attributes, as it enables him to perform feats that other players cannot. His ability to jump high off the ground gives him an advantage when it comes to shooting, as he can release the ball from a higher point than most defenders can reach. Additionally, it also helps him when it comes to defense, as he can block shots or disrupt passes that others would not be able to.

Another factor that contributes to Morant’s success on the court is his weight distribution. Unlike some players who might be too top-heavy or bottom-heavy, Morant has a well-balanced physique that allows him to move quickly and change direction easily. This means that he can evade defenders more effectively and get into positions where he can score or set up his teammates for baskets.

In summary, Ja Morant’s physical attributes play a significant role in his performance as a basketball player. His exceptional vertical leap and well-balanced weight distribution give him an edge over other players in terms of jumping ability, shooting accuracy, defensive prowess, and overall agility on the court. These factors have helped him establish himself as one of the rising stars in the NBA today.

Moving forward, we will explore another critical aspect of basketball performance: speed and agility. While having high vertical leap and good weight distribution are essential elements in being successful on the court; these traits must be coupled with quick feet movements and agility to complete an optimal basketball player.

The Role Of Speed And Agility In Basketball

Having discussed the physical attributes of Ja Morant in the previous section, it is important to note that while height and vertical jump are often considered crucial factors in basketball success, they are not the only determinants. In fact, speed and agility play a significant role in the game and can be even more valuable than size.

Speed vs. size has been a topic of debate among basketball enthusiasts for years. While taller players may have an advantage when it comes to blocking shots or grabbing rebounds, smaller, faster players like Morant can easily maneuver around defenders and execute fast breaks. This type of agility can make all the difference in tight games where every second counts.

Agility training techniques have become increasingly popular among basketball players looking to improve their overall performance on the court. These drills focus on quick movements, footwork, and reaction time, all of which are essential for players like Morant who rely on their speed and agility to outmaneuver opponents. Incorporating these techniques into his training regimen has likely contributed significantly to Morant’s success.

In examining Ja Morant’s vertical jump specifically, it is important to note that while it may not be as impressive as some other players’, it is still above average for his height. More importantly though, his ability to quickly change direction and accelerate past defenders makes up for any perceived lack of jumping ability. Ultimately, what sets Morant apart from other players is not his physical attributes alone but rather his combination of speed, agility, and strategic decision-making on the court.

Transition: Now that we have discussed how speed and agility play a vital role in basketball success, let us delve deeper into specific training methods that can help players like Ja Morant excel on the court even further.

Examining Ja Morant’s Vertical Jump

Ja Morant has been widely regarded as one of the most exciting young players in the NBA today. Despite being only 6’3″ tall, he has shown a remarkable ability to jump high above the rim and finish with authority. However, some skeptics have questioned whether his height and vertical leap are really all that impressive. In this section, we will take a closer look at Ja Morant’s vertical jump to determine whether it truly sets him apart from other players.

Vertical leap techniques have long been studied by sports scientists and trainers alike. The science behind high jumps is complex and involves a combination of strength, speed, and technique. One of the key factors in achieving a high vertical jump is having strong leg muscles, particularly the quadriceps and calves. However, other factors such as flexibility, balance, and coordination also play important roles.

So how does Ja Morant stack up when it comes to his vertical jump? According to official measurements taken at the NBA combine, Morant recorded a maximum vertical leap of 44 inches – an incredibly impressive number that puts him among the top athletes in his sport. However, it is worth noting that raw jumping ability alone does not necessarily translate into success on the court. Players must also be able to use their jumping ability effectively in game situations.

Overall, while Ja Morant’s height and jumping ability are certainly noteworthy aspects of his game, they do not tell the whole story of what makes him such an exciting player to watch. By utilizing proper technique and maximizing his natural physical gifts through dedicated training and practice, he has become one of the most dynamic point guards in recent memory.

Transition: While many may believe that dunking is reserved for forwards or centers who tower over their opponents on the court, there exists a myth surrounding point guards who possess exceptional leaping abilities. Let us explore this myth further in the next section.

The Myth Of The “Dunking Point Guard”

Jumping ability is an integral part of a point guard’s game, yet the perception of such players is often based on the traditional stereotype. Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies’ point guard, has gained notoriety due to his exceptional leaping ability despite standing 5’11” and posting a 41-inch vertical jump. This has caused many to question the traditional notion of a point guard, as Morant’s athleticism has allowed him to defy expectations. Ultimately, it is clear that a point guard’s jumping ability, rather than their height and vertical jump, is the most important factor in evaluating their performance.

Jumping Ability

Every basketball enthusiast knows that a player’s vertical jump is an essential aspect of their overall performance. When it comes to dunking, the height and jumping ability of a player can determine their success on the court. However, when it comes to the case of Ja Morant, the Memphis Grizzlies’ point guard, his height and vertical jump don’t matter as much as one would initially think.

To many, Morant’s 6’3″ height may seem average for an NBA point guard. Additionally, his vertical jump of 44 inches may not be as impressive as some other players in the league. However, what sets Morant apart is his exceptional ball-handling skills and explosive speed. These attributes allow him to maneuver around defenders with ease and make quick decisions on the court.

Morant’s success isn’t just due to natural talent; he continuously works on improving his vertical through various training techniques. His dedication to improving his athleticism has undoubtedly paid off, but it’s still not the sole factor responsible for his success. It’s worth noting that there are several players in the NBA with higher vertical jumps than Morant but are not nearly as successful as him on the court.

In conclusion, while jumping ability is a critical aspect of basketball performance, Ja Morant’s success proves that it isn’t everything. His unique skillset and work ethic have propelled him to become one of the most exciting young talents in the league today. Aspiring basketball players should take note that there are ways to improve their vertical jump if necessary; however, it shouldn’t be their sole focus if they want to succeed like Ja Morant.

Perception Of Point Guards

The perception of point guards in basketball has undergone significant changes over the years. Traditionally, point guards were known for their playmaking abilities, facilitating scoring opportunities for their teammates and rarely taking shots themselves. However, modern-day point guards are expected to do much more than just pass the ball; they must also be able to score and dunk when necessary. This expectation has led to the emergence of the myth of the ‘dunking point guard.’

The myth suggests that a point guard’s value on the court is determined by their ability to dunk. This perception has made it seem like height and jumping ability are essential factors for a point guard’s success. However, as seen in players like Ja Morant, this is not necessarily true. Morant’s success on the court redefines expectations for what a point guard can bring to a team.

Morant’s unique skill set challenges the traditional perception of what a successful point guard looks like. His exceptional ball-handling skills and explosive speed allow him to create opportunities for himself and his teammates without relying on dunks or height. This changing perception emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to playing basketball; every player brings a unique set of skills that contribute to their team’s overall success.

In conclusion, while dunking ability may have become an important factor in evaluating a point guard’s performance, it should not be used as the sole determinant of their value on the court. The changing perceptions regarding what makes a successful point guard highlight that redefining expectations and embracing individual strengths can lead to greater success both individually and as a team.

Skill Vs. Physical Attributes

In the world of sports, it is often tempting to focus on physical attributes when analyzing an athlete’s potential. However, it is essential to recognize that physical abilities are only part of the equation. Skill development and mental toughness are equally important factors in determining an athlete’s success.

While physical attributes may give an individual a head start, skill development can take an athlete much further. Skill development requires dedication and hard work, traits that are not necessarily linked to one’s height or vertical jump. An athlete who focuses on refining their skills can become a formidable opponent regardless of their physical attributes.

Mental toughness is another critical component of athletic success. This trait allows athletes to push through challenges and remain focused on their goals. Mental toughness can be developed through rigorous training and practice, allowing athletes to overcome obstacles both on and off the field.

In conclusion, while physical attributes such as height and vertical jump may catch our attention, they are not the sole indicators of an athlete’s potential for success. Skill development and mental toughness play a crucial role in determining how far an athlete will go in their career. In the next section, we will break down Ja Morant’s game and examine how his skills and mental toughness have contributed to his rise in the NBA ranks.

Breaking Down Ja Morant’s Game

Ja Morant’s style of play is characterized by his exceptional athleticism and ability to create plays for himself as well as his teammates. His impressive court vision and passing ability have been a critical factor in the Memphis Grizzlies’ success this season. Ja Morant has also become a leader in the locker room and is widely regarded as the team’s most important player. Finally, Ja Morant’s height and vertical jump have not been a limiting factor for his game, making him one of the most exciting players to watch in the league today.

Ja Morant’s Style Of Play

Ja Morant’s height and vertical jump may be hot topics among basketball fans, but they are not the defining factors of his game. What sets Morant apart is his unconventional and unpredictable style of play. He has a unique ability to create scoring opportunities with his ball handling skills and quick decision-making, making him a force to be reckoned with on the court.

Morant’s importance lies in his creativity and adaptability. He is not afraid to take risks and try new moves, often catching defenders off guard. His ability to change direction quickly and smoothly allows him to get past even the most skilled defenders. His fearless approach to the game makes him an exciting player to watch, as he continually finds ways to outsmart opponents.

Morant’s style of play has made him a valuable asset for the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite being a relatively young player, he has already established himself as a leader on the court. His confidence in his abilities inspires his teammates and creates a dynamic team environment. He is constantly looking for ways to improve and elevate his game, demonstrating that success in basketball requires more than just physical attributes.

In conclusion, Ja Morant’s style of play is what truly sets him apart from other players in the league. His unconventional moves and ball handling skills make him a potent offensive threat, while his creativity and adaptability allow him to excel in any situation on the court. Ultimately, it is these qualities that make him such an exciting player to watch – one who will undoubtedly continue to dominate the league for years to come.

Ja Morant’s Impact On The Game

Ja Morant’s style of play has not only caught the attention of basketball fans, but it has also left a significant impact on the game. His ability to create scoring opportunities and outsmart opponents has earned him a reputation as one of the league’s most exciting players. Morant’s impact on fans can be seen through his growing popularity and influence among young players.

Morant’s creativity and adaptability have inspired a new generation of basketball players. Many young players look up to him as a role model, striving to replicate his fearless approach to the game. His unconventional moves and ball handling skills have become a source of inspiration for those looking to elevate their game.

Beyond inspiring young players, Morant’s impact on the game can also be seen in how he has elevated his team, the Memphis Grizzlies. Since joining the team in 2019, he has helped lead them to success with his leadership skills and impressive performances on the court. As he continues to develop as a player, it is likely that his impact will only continue to grow.

In conclusion, Ja Morant’s impact on the game extends far beyond just his individual performance on the court. His unique style of play has inspired fans and young players alike, making him an important figure in basketball culture. As he continues to make headlines with his impressive plays and leadership skills, it is clear that Ja Morant will be leaving a lasting impact on the sport for years to come.

The Importance Of Court Vision

Ja Morant’s game is one that cannot be easily defined. A quick glance at his physical attributes, particularly his height and vertical jump, may lead one to believe that he is just another athletic player in the league. However, a closer look reveals that there is much more to Morant’s game than just his physical gifts.

One area where Morant particularly excels is in his court vision. He has an innate ability to see the court and anticipate where his teammates will be, which makes him an excellent playmaker. This skill has been honed through years of practice and experience, but it also speaks to Morant’s basketball IQ.

Developing basketball IQ is essential for any athlete who wants to succeed in the sport. It involves not only understanding the rules of the game but also being able to read the situation and make quick decisions based on what is happening on the court. This requires a combination of natural talent and discipline, as well as a willingness to learn from coaches and other players.

Indeed, coaching and training can have a significant impact on an athlete’s development. For Morant, working with coaches who understand his strengths and weaknesses has helped him refine his skills and become a more complete player. And while he may still have room for improvement in certain areas, it is clear that he has already established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the NBA today.

Moving forward, it will be interesting to see how Morant continues to develop as a player. With his court vision and basketball IQ already at such a high level, it seems likely that he will only continue to improve with time and experience. But regardless of what lies ahead for him on the court, one thing is certain: Ja Morant’s game will always be about much more than just his height and vertical jump.

The Impact Of Coaching And Training

Coaching and training are crucial components that contribute to an athlete’s success in any sport. In basketball, coaching techniques play a significant role in the development of players’ skills and abilities. A good coach is one who can identify the strengths and weaknesses of their players and tailor their training accordingly. Through effective communication, motivation, and strategic planning, coaches can help players reach their full potential.

Training methods also have a significant impact on an athlete’s performance. Basketball players must engage in specific exercises that improve their speed, agility, strength, endurance, and coordination. These exercises aim to enhance the player’s overall physical fitness and prepare them for various game situations. Additionally, specialized drills that focus on improving specific skills such as shooting or dribbling can help players refine their techniques.

Coaches and trainers should also prioritize injury prevention during training sessions. Basketball is a physically demanding sport that requires athletes to execute explosive movements frequently. As such, it is essential to teach proper form when executing these movements to avoid injuries. Coaches must also ensure that they provide adequate rest periods for players during training sessions to prevent overexertion.

In conclusion, coaching techniques and training methods are critical components in developing successful basketball players. By focusing on individual strengths and weaknesses while emphasizing injury prevention, coaches can create a positive environment for growth and improvement among their teams. This approach not only helps players develop better physical skills but also fosters greater teamwork dynamics amongst teammates.

As athletes progress through their careers, they will inevitably face obstacles and adversity both on and off the court. In the next section, we will explore how top-performing basketball players overcome these challenges through mental fortitude, resilience, and perseverance.

Overcoming Obstacles And Adversity

Coaching and training play a crucial role in the success of athletes. However, even with the best coaching and training, athletes will inevitably face obstacles and adversity that can hinder their progress. Overcoming these challenges requires mental toughness, resilience, and determination.

To illustrate this point, let’s take a look at Ja Morant’s journey to becoming one of the NBA’s rising stars. Despite being overlooked by many college recruiters due to his small-town background and lack of exposure, Morant persevered through hard work and dedication. He worked tirelessly on his game and focused on improving his weaknesses while honing his strengths.

Morant’s mental toughness was put to the test when he suffered a serious knee injury during his rookie season in the NBA. Many experts thought it would be a setback that could derail his career. However, Morant used his injury as motivation to come back stronger than ever. He didn’t let setbacks define him, but rather used them as opportunities for growth.

Overcoming adversity is not easy, but it is necessary for success in sports and life. As athletes face unexpected challenges throughout their careers, they must develop mental toughness to push through obstacles and stay focused on their goals. With hard work, determination, and resilience like Ja Morant has shown us, anything is possible.

  • Four key takeaways:
  • Overcoming adversity requires mental toughness.
  • Setbacks should not define us; they are opportunities for growth.
  • Hard work and dedication are essential for success.
  • Resilience is necessary for achieving our goals.

The future of Ja Morant looks incredibly bright as he continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to improving his game while overcoming obstacles along the way. His ability to push himself mentally and physically has already made him one of the NBA’s most exciting young players. As we look ahead to what lies ahead for Morant, we can expect continued growth from this talented athlete who has already shown us that anything is possible with the right mindset and work ethic.

The Future Of Ja Morant

Ja Morant’s potential for future success in the NBA is undeniable. Despite not being the tallest player on the court, he has proven that his skills and athleticism are more than enough to make him a force to be reckoned with. Morant’s impact on young players is immeasurable, as he embodies the kind of relentless work ethic and determination that aspiring basketball players strive for.

Morant’s impressive performance during his rookie season with the Memphis Grizzlies showcased his ability to lead a team and make clutch plays when it matters most. He averaged 17.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, earning himself a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. His explosiveness on the court and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates have left fans and analysts alike excited about what he could achieve in the coming years.

Looking ahead, it is clear that Ja Morant has a bright future in the NBA. With continued growth and development, there is no doubt that he will become an even more dominant player in the league. His dedication to improving his game both physically and mentally sets him apart from other players in his class.

As we continue to witness Ja Morant’s journey unfold, there are valuable lessons that we can learn from his approach to basketball. From his unwavering work ethic to his fearless attitude towards taking risks on the court, Morant serves as an inspiration for young players who aspire to greatness in their own careers. His story reminds us that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Lessons Learned From Ja Morant’s Journey

The Future of Ja Morant seems bright as he continues to make strides in his career. But what can we learn from his journey so far? One important lesson is that height and vertical jump don’t necessarily dictate success. Despite being just 6’3″, Ja has proven himself to be one of the most explosive players on the court thanks to his impressive jumping ability. However, it’s not just about physical attributes.

Ja’s success has also been driven by finding inspiration and setting goals for himself. He has spoken about how he looks up to players like Damian Lillard and Russell Westbrook, studying their games and striving to emulate their success. Additionally, Ja sets high standards for himself, constantly pushing himself to improve his game and achieve new milestones.

This mindset has helped Ja overcome obstacles that might have held others back. When he suffered a serious injury during his rookie season, many doubted whether he would be able to come back as strong as before. But Ja remained focused on his goals and worked tirelessly in rehab to get back on the court.

In conclusion, while Ja Morant’s journey so far has been impressive, there is much we can learn from it beyond just his physical abilities. By finding inspiration in others and setting ambitious goals for ourselves, we can all strive towards greatness in our own lives.

Conclusion

Defying conventional wisdom in the world of basketball, Ja Morant has proven that height and vertical jump are not the only indicators of success on the court. Despite being a mere 6’3″ and possessing an average vertical jump for his position, he has made a name for himself as one of the most exciting young players in the league.

But Morant’s rise to stardom is not solely based on his physical attributes. The impact of coaching and training, as well as his ability to overcome obstacles and adversity, have played crucial roles in his development as a player. As he continues to thrive in the NBA, Morant serves as an inspiration and a reminder that hard work and determination can trump natural talent.

Morant’s story also highlights the importance of defying conventional wisdom and challenging preconceived notions about what it takes to succeed. As sports fans, we often focus too much on height, weight, and other physical attributes when evaluating players. But Morant’s success shows that there are many other factors at play – including mental toughness, perseverance, and dedication – that can make all the difference.

In conclusion, Ja Morant’s journey is a testament to the fact that size isn’t everything in basketball – or in any aspect of life. By focusing on what truly matters – hard work, dedication, and a willingness to overcome obstacles – we can achieve our goals regardless of our physical limitations. So let us all take inspiration from Morant’s story and strive to defy conventional wisdom in pursuit of our dreams.

Ja Morant (51914621662)” by Erik Drost is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

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