The NBA announced that Grizzlies star Ja Morant has been suspended for the first 25 games for brandishing a firearm on social media for the second time in six months, and Morant will have to meet “certain conditions” before returning.
Morant’s suspension begins immediately.
“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,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “The potential for other 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.
“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.”
Silver did not specify what those conditions may be, though the league certainly has them in place and has already informed Morant of the necessary steps for a return.
Morant, 23, is coming off another fantastic season, averaging 26.2 points, 8.1 assists and 5.9 rebounds. But the Grizzlies lost to the Lakers in the first round of the playoffs after finishing with the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference.
By announcing Morant’s suspension now, the NBA is allowing Memphis the opportunity to plan for its season ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft and free agency.
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