Ja Morant Receives Warning After Gun Gesture, Grizzlies Star Avoids Suspension
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant will not face a significant disciplinary action following a recent incident involving a gesture referencing a firearm during a game against the Golden State Warriors. Details on the NBA’s response and the Warriors’ situation are outlined here.
According to ESPN, the NBA issued a warning to Morant, a significant step considering his history with similar issues.
The League ruled that the celebrations had no intention of being violent by nature, but were inappropriate and had to refrain,
ESPN
This latest incident occurred on Tuesday when Morant pointed a firearm gesture in the direction of the Warriors’ bench. Buddy Hield, a Warrior, also received a warning from the NBA for his own actions during the game. Stephen Curry, leading the Warriors with 52 points, was narrowly unsuccessful in setting a new triple-point record.
Morant’s past behavior has been a recurring concern for the NBA. In 2023, he faced an eight-game suspension following a social media post featuring what appeared to be a firearm. A subsequent incident in the same year resulted in a 25-game suspension after a video emerged of him displaying a firearm in a vehicle. Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the seriousness of these actions, stating,
“Ja Morant’s decision to wield a firearm on social networks again is alarming and disconcerting, given his similar behavior in March, which was already suspended eight games.”
ESPN
He highlighted the potential for imitation by younger players, emphasizing the need to prioritize basketball over such reckless actions.
Beyond this recent event, Morant has been involved in other controversies, including allegations of using a laser pointer to target a Pacers player’s vehicle following a tense exchange between members of their respective entourages.
The Grizzlies are scheduled to play the Miami Heat on Thursday, currently holding an eighth-place position in the Western Conference standings.
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