The Memphis Grizzlies issued a statement that informed fans that they suspended Ja Morant for at least the next two games following the news of an investigation by the NBA into the star player. Moreover, said action from the league stems from an Instagram Live clip of Morant brandishing what appears to be a gun. While the video does not indicate whether the firearm is real or not, he still faces consequences depending on what the investigation concludes. Furthermore, NBA spokesperson Mike Bass broke the announcement via a report from ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
"We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating," Bass reportedly stated. Not only that, but this comes soon after Morant faced accusations of threatening a 17-year-old with a gun. As reported, the Grizzlies guard hosted a pick-up game at his Tennessee home where he got into an altercation. However, after a police investigation, authorities ultimately dismissed moving forward with prosecution. While this was due to a lack of evidence, it's a link in a chain of reckless acts that Morant is allegedly complicit in.
Ja Morant Suspended After Investigation
For example, a member of his entourage faced accusations of pointing a red dot at a group of Pacers fans. Still, the 23-year-old denied those claims via a Twitter message. "Did a investigation seen they were cappin,” he penned on the social media platform. “Still let a article come out to paint this negative image on me & my fam. & banned my brother from home games for a year. Unbelievable." Not only that, but Bass also confirmed that an investigation into that post-game incident concluded that they involved no weapons in the incident.
Overall, this could greatly impact Morant's role on the team, and their morale and structure moving forward. The next two games might be a definitive moment for his career or even for the Grizzlies' season. With all this happening around him, it's no surprise that he deactivated his Twitter and Instagram accounts after news of the investigation and suspension. Hopefully, whether it's his own recklessness or that of his peers, he can work towards staying out of trouble. As the NBA world reacts and opinions differ on his situation, Grizzlies fans are concerned first and foremost for his well-being. Regardless of your take, stick around on HNHH for more updates on this story and the latest news from Ja Morant.