Ja Morant: NBA hand Grizzlies star 25-game suspension

Ja Morant has been suspended by the NBA for 25 games after a video on social media circulated showing the Memphis Grizzlies superstar brandishing a firearm.

The All Star, who was suspended for eight games in March for a similar incident, will now miss the start of the 2023-24 season.

Morant was seen on Instagram Live holding up a handgun while at a Denver-area club.

“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.”

More to follow...