Memphis Grizzlies’ star Ja Morant suspended for at least two games after inappropriate Instagram live
Ja Morant suspended for two games by the Grizzlies after flashing a gun on his IG live. The player issued a statement, saying he'll be away from the team to reflect and learn.
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Ja Morant (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)
Ja Morant, the All-Star guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, has been suspended by the organization for at least the next two games after being seen on his Instagram live account with what seemed to be a gun at a nightclub early on Saturday morning.
This incident has raised concerns about Morant’s behavior off the court and his conduct as a professional athlete. The NBA has strict rules about players’ conduct both on and off the court, and any violation can lead to disciplinary action. The league is expected to make a statement on the incident soon.
The event is being looked into, as acknowledged by the league. “We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating,” NBA spokesperson Mike Bass said in a statement earlier Saturday.
The Grizzlies announced Saturday afternoon that Morant “will be away from the team for at least the next two games,” meaning he will not play Sunday against the LA Clippers or Tuesday against the LA Lakers.
Morant has been one of the Grizzlies’ key players this season, averaging 27.1 points, 8.2 assists, and 6.0 rebounds in 53 games. Currently, the Memphis Grizzlies hold the second seed in the Western Conference with a record of 38 wins and 24 losses, and they are one game ahead of the Sacramento Kings.
Related: NBA Investigates Ja Morant’s Alleged Gun Display in Viral Instagram Live Video
Ja Morant takes time away from Memphis Grizzlies to reflect and learn following suspension
Ja Morant announced on Saturday afternoon that he will take some time away from the team following his recent suspension. In a statement released on social media, the guard said that he needs to “reflect and learn” from his actions.
“I want to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the Grizzlies organization, and our fans for the distraction that I’ve caused. I take full responsibility for my actions and understand that I have a lot of work to do to regain the trust of everyone involved,” Morant said in the statement.
Nike, who has a signature shoe line with Morant, backed the Grizzlies star in a statement released Saturday evening.“We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs,” the statement read. “We support his prioritization of his well-being.”
Ja Morant deactivated his Instagram and Twitter accounts once the news surfaced. His statement was made public by his agency. Morant has announced that he will be away from the team for an unspecified duration. Nonetheless, he’ll be aiming to put the controversy behind him and focus on the remainder of the season when he returns.
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Vivek Yadav
(624 Articles Published)