Ja Morant has landed himself in trouble way too many times lately. The All-Star has not been having the greatest time managing his professional and personal life. His reputation with the league is spiraling at the moment and it might take him a lot of effort to set things right. Especially after his most recent gun controversy, things have not been taken lightly this time.
His first gun incident took place nearly four months ago while he was partying at a local club. Morant waved a gun around while he went live on Instagram. The NBA’s Commissioner, Adam Silver claimed that the player recognized his mistakes and understood how bad it was. But in May, the pro athlete fell into same hole again. This time he was with a friend who pointed the camera at Morant while he went live on Instagram. Morant accidentally waved a gun around for the second time.
The Memphis Grizzlies took immediate action by suspending him from all team-related activities and events. Ja Morant also received a lot of backlash from former players, peers, league experts, and fans. The former Most Improved Player of the Year apologized to his fan base, the league, and everybody he is associated with, similar to the first time. However, Morant has since unfollowed Davonte Pack, the controversial friend who was present in the car with Morant when the incident took place.
Ja Morant will be suspended for 25 games during the upcoming 2023-24 season
Adam Silver first addressed the situation following last month’s NBA Draft Lottery. Silver claimed that he was blindsided by Ja Morant’s actions as he seemed remorseful and understanding of his diabolical actions. Before the NBA Finals had commenced, Silver announced that the NBA uncovered additional information about Morant’s actions. He also stated that his punishment would be revealed after the finals ended.
Now, it’s been a few days since the finals concluded and Silver had this to say, “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 potential for other young people to emulate Ja’s conduct is particularly concerning.” He continued, “Under these circumstances, we believe a suspension of 25 games is appropriate and makes clear that engaging in reckless and irresponsible behavior with guns will not be tolerated.”
ESPN Sources: The NBA has suspended Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant 25 games to start the 2023-2024 season. pic.twitter.com/EGKRU7WqwO
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 16, 2023
In addition to this Silver stated that Ja Morant will go through a “program” that will address the circumstances that led to the second incident. For Morant, this suspension will take a massive hit to his season. The NBA requires athletes to play a minimum of 65 games to be eligible for post-season awards and selections. Morant will not be eligible under these circumstances and may potentially lose out on a contract extension with the Grizzlies.
