Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant, a two-time NBA All-Star, has been suspended for at least two games after he appeared to brandish a gun in an Instagram video. The NBA is currently investigating the incident.
The video in question was posted on Morant’s Instagram account and shows him holding what appears to be a handgun while at a nightclub. The video has since been deleted, but not before it was widely circulated on social media.
The Memphis Grizzlies released a statement saying that they were aware of the situation and that Morant would be “away from the team” for at least two games. The statement also said that the team would have no further comment until the NBA’s investigation was complete.
This is not the first time that an NBA player has been suspended for displaying a weapon on social media. In 2019, Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green was fined $50,000 by the league after he posted a photo of himself holding what appeared to be an assault rifle on his Instagram account.
The NBA has strict rules regarding weapons possession by players. According to the league’s collective bargaining agreement, players are prohibited from possessing firearms or other weapons while engaged in any NBA activity or while on team business.
Morant’s suspension is a blow to the Memphis Grizzlies, who are currently fighting for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Morant is one of their best players and leads the team in scoring and assists this season. In fact, he’s one of the best players in the league.
It remains to be seen what other disciplinary actions may be taken by either the NBA or the Grizzlies organization. In any case, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible social media use by professional athletes. Honestly, all people have to do is exercise some common sense.
