June 16 (UPI) — Ja Morant, a star player for the Memphis Grizzlies, has been suspended by the NBA for 25 games for engaging in conduct that was deemed detrimental to the league. The suspension was imposed after Morant was seen waving a gun in a car in a video posted on social media.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver expressed concern over Morant’s repeated firearm-related behavior, stating, “Ja Morant’s decision to once again wield a firearm on social media is alarming and disconcerting given his similar conduct in March for which he was already suspended eight games.”
The league believes that a 25-game suspension is appropriate to discourage young people from emulating Morant’s actions, making it clear that reckless and irresponsible behavior involving guns will not be tolerated.
The video, posted on May 13 on Instagram, showed Morant holding a gun while dancing in a car. The NBA determined that Morant displayed the gun while leaving a social gathering in Memphis. It was also found that Morant was aware of being recorded and intentionally streamed the footage on Instagram live.
Despite having made commitments to the league not to repeat such behavior, Morant’s decision to wield a firearm on social media again has resulted in his suspension. Earlier this year, Morant was suspended for eight games after live streaming himself while holding a gun while intoxicated in a Denver nightclub.
Shortly after being suspended, Morant issued an apology, expressing remorse for the harm he has caused. He apologized to the NBA, the Grizzlies, his teammates, the city of Memphis, NBA commissioner Adam Silver, Grizzlies owners Zach Kleiman and Robert Pera, and his sponsors. Morant promised to improve his behavior, be a better representation of the brands he endorses, and make it up to his fans.
Morant’s suspension, without pay, will last for the first 25 games of the 2023-24 season. Before his return, he will need to fulfill certain conditions and work with the league to address the circumstances that led to his repeated gun-related behavior. During his suspension, Morant is prohibited from participating in any public league or team activities.
With basketball taking a secondary role, Morant intends to focus on his mental health, decision-making, and training during the offseason and suspension. As the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, Morant joined the Grizzlies and quickly became an All-Star point guard. He averaged 26.2 points, 8.1 assists, and 5.9 rebounds in 61 games last season. In July, Morant signed a five-year, $193 million contract extension.
Morant concluded his apology by asking for the opportunity to prove that he is capable of being a better man than his recent actions have shown.
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