The NBA has announced the suspension of Memphis Grizzlies player Ja Morant for 25 games in the upcoming season due to his involvement in a social media video where he brandished a gun. The 23-year-old has been suspended without pay by the league for conduct deemed detrimental to the NBA.
According to the NBA’s statement, Morant was seen posing with a firearm in a live-streamed video on 13 May, marking the second time he has displayed a handgun in a video. In a previous incident in March, Morant was suspended for eight games after another live stream showed him with a gun while appearing “intoxicated” at a nightclub.
As a result of the suspension, Morant stands to lose just over $300,000 per game, amounting to a total loss of approximately $7.5 million. Prior to the suspension, he was expected to earn around $33.5 million in the 2023/24 season.
Before being allowed to return to the court, Morant will need to fulfill certain conditions imposed by the NBA. Throughout the suspension, he will be ineligible to participate in any league or team activities, including pre-season games.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver expressed his concerns about Morant’s behavior, emphasizing that wielding a gun is “alarming and disconcerting,” especially considering his previous suspension for similar conduct. Silver highlighted the potential impact of such actions on young people, making it clear that the league will not tolerate reckless and irresponsible behavior involving firearms.
In response to the suspension, Morant issued an apology to the NBA, the Memphis Grizzlies organization, his teammates, and the city of Memphis. He acknowledged the harm caused by his actions and expressed remorse for failing as a role model for kids. Morant vowed to improve and make amends to his fans, promising to do better in the future.
