Memphis Grizzlies star, Ja Morant, will serve a 25-game suspension to start the upcoming 2023-24 season. The NBA made the announcement this past Friday after another concerning video surfaced on social media. Yes, another one. Back in March, Morant was suspended when he was seen on Instagram Live brandishing a handgun while intoxicated inside a nightclub.
“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 young people to emulate Ja’s conduct is particularly concerning. 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.” – Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner
With the lengthy suspension, we can also expect strict conditions for Ja’s return. He will also be ineligible to participate in any public league or team activities which includes Summer and the Pre-Season.
“For Ja, basketball needs to take a back seat at this time. Prior to his return to play, he will be required to formulate and fulfill a program with the league that directly addresses the circumstances that led him to repeat this destructive behavior,” continued Silver.
Ja Morant was set to make nearly $34 million in the coming season but could lose approximately $7.5 million due to the suspension.
“I want to apologize to the NBA, the Grizzlies, my teammates, and the city of Memphis. To Adam Silver, Zach Kleiman, and Robert Pera — who gave me the opportunity to be a professional athlete and have supported me — I’m sorry for the harm I’ve done. To the kids who look up to me, I’m sorry for failing you as a role model. I promise I’m going to be better. To all of my sponsors, I’m going to be a better representation of our brands. And to all of my fans, I’m going to make it up to you, I promise.” – Ja Morant
Previously, when we reported the initial incident, we didn’t get to share our personal reactions to the situation. Today, our sentiments stand firm in what most people have already shared. Ja Morant still has time to redeem himself and resurrect his career. But only if he’s truly willing to match his seemingly sincere apology with actions of positive change. “I’ve had time to reflect and I realize how much hurt I’ve caused,” Morant stated. The ball is in your court, Ja. After serving the suspension, what are you willing to change, or give up, in order to keep your basketball legacy intact?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yvUBWEzi-4
