Van Lathan, Charleston White, & NFL PLAYERS React to JA MORANT GUN
52Van Lathan, Charleston White, & NFL PLAYERS React to JA MORANT GUN
Ja Morant suspended from Grizzlies for 2 games after posing with gun on Instagram
Memphis Grizzlies All-Star guard Ja Morant was the subject of a detailed story earlier this week which alleged his involvement in three violent off-court incidents. Saturday, the team announced he has been suspended for two games after he became the subject of an investigation by the NBA concerning his actions on an early Saturday morning Instagram Live.
Instagram Live videos delete when they conclude, but his social media activity was screen recorded, screen shotted and recirculated on the internet.
Morant appeared to be recording from a strip club after the Grizzlies' 113-97 road loss to the Denver Nuggets Friday night. Morant had 27 points and 10 assists in the effort.
In the video, Morant appears to hold a firearm to the side of his head and flash it repeatedly.
“We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement.
He will miss a Southern California road trip where the Grizzlies will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday before meeting the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.
Morant issued a statement via his agent, Jim Tanner. “I take full responsibility for my actions last night. I’m sorry to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, partners, the city of Memphis and the entire Grizzlies organization for letting you down," it read. “I’m going to take some time away to get help and work on learning better methods of dealing with stress and my overall well-being.”
The 23-year-old is at a turning point in his life and career. Playing at a high level in his fourth professional season, his stardom has positioned him as a top pitchman for Nike and an endorser for Powerade.