ja morant

Paul Pierce Defends Ja Morant Amid Indefinite Suspension

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Paul Pierce is someone who played for a very long time in the NBA. Overall, he got to see a lot during his time in the league. Furthermore, he saw plenty of players engage in off-court controversies that changed the course of their careers. Of course, we are starting to see that right now with none other than Ja Morant. Over the past week or so, Morant has been accused of pointing a gun at a teenager. Moreover, he was accused of threatening a mall cop. He even brandished a gun on Instagram Live while at a strip club.

Consequently, the Memphis Grizzlies have suspended Ja Morant indefinitely. At first, he was only going to miss two games. However, after talking with Morant, they decided to increase the punishment. All of this has led to a lot of discourse about Morant and his future in the league. There are a lot of people who feel as though Ja is being reckless, and is ruining his career. Paul Pierce, however, feels a different way. In his tweet below, Pierce recounts his own personal experience and how you never know what a player might be going through.

Paul Pierce Speaks

“I don’t care what y’all say about Ja I carried a gun after I was stabbed y’all don’t know what he going thru everyone got something to say until u really know what’s really going on in someone life when u black and rich u a target period,” Pierce said. As Pierce explains, during his early years with the Celtics, he was attacked. This left him feeling vulnerable, and it led to him purchasing a weapon to defend himself. Although, there is a clear difference between self-defense and flashing weapons on your Instagram story.

Either way, Pierce does make a good point. There is no telling how Morant feels right now, and those around him are going to need to step in and help him. Regardless, this is a very distressing situation. You never want to see a player put themselves in a bad position like this. Hopefully, Morant is able to get it together, sooner rather than later.

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SOURCE SPORTS: Grizzlies Coach Taylor Jenkins Says There is ‘No Timetable’ for Ja Morant’s Return

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Grizzlies Coach Taylor Jenkins Says There is 'No Timetable' for Ja Morant's Return

Ja Morant is currently away from the team after flashing a gun in a nightclub on Instagram. What originally started as a two-game removal from Morant, appears to be longer, as Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins provided an update ahead of their matchup with the Los Angeles Clippers.

“We have said that it’s going to be at least these two games,” Jenkins said. “I mean, this is going be an ongoing healing process. … It’s really not a timetable situation.”

He added, “We’re taking this very seriously. There’s a supportive element for someone that’s got to get better and needs some help. But then there’s also accountability to the team that we’ve got to stand for.

“Obviously nationwide, leaguewide, there’s been a lot of attention on gun violence, and so for us, that’s the stance that we’ve taken about how we can support Ja throughout this growth opportunity. It’s a learning opportunity, and hopefully we can be better from it.”

Nike has revealed they will stick beside Ja Morant. In case you missed it, Morant is currently away from the team for at least another game after posting an Instagram Story featuring himself shirtless and flashing a gun. It was believed Morant was in a strip club.

Morant released a statement afterward, stating he was seeking help. He would then deactivate his social media.

“I’m sorry to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, partners, the city of Memphis and the entire Grizzlies’ organization for letting you down,” the statement 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.”

“We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being,” Nike offered in a statement, according to Shams Charania.

The latest incident comes after Morant has made headlines for other moments of controversial behavior, including punching a 17-year-old before flashing his gun, and threatening a mall security guard with an entourage.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Grizzlies Coach Taylor Jenkins Says There is ‘No Timetable’ for Ja Morant’s Return appeared first on The Source.

Nike Sticking Beside Ja Morant Amid Controversy: ‘We Support His Prioritization of His Well-being’

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Ja Morant Sued for Allegedly Striking a Teenager During Pick-Up Game

Nike has revealed they will stick beside Ja Morant. In case you missed it, Morant is currently away from the team for at least another game after posting an Instagram Story featuring himself shirtless and flashing a gun. It was believed Morant was in a strip club.

Morant released a statement afterward, stating he was seeking help. He would then deactivate his social media.

“I’m sorry to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, partners, the city of Memphis and the entire Grizzlies’ organization for letting you down,” the statement 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.”

“We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being,” Nike offered in a statement, according to Shams Charania.

The latest incident comes after Morant has made headlines for other moments of controversial behavior, including punching a 17-year-old before flashing his gun, and threatening a mall security guard with an entourage.

The post Nike Sticking Beside Ja Morant Amid Controversy: ‘We Support His Prioritization of His Well-being’ appeared first on The Source.

Ja Morant’s Suspension Is Indefinite, Grizzlies Confirm

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It appears that Ja Morant will miss more than just two games for the Memphis Grizzlies, after head coach Taylor Jenkins kept things vague when asked when he’ll return to the lineup. Speaking with reporters on Sunday, Jenkins explained that there isn’t a “definitive timeline” and that the organization is taking things “one day at a time,” regarding Morant’s status. The team suspended Morant after he brandished a firearm while filming himself on Instagram Live. Morant has since released a statement apologizing for the incident.

“The focus right now is Ja taking on the responsibility to really get the help he needs to get into a better place, generally speaking,” Jenkins said. “But also on the flipside, to be in a better place to embrace the responsibilities and expectations as a member of this team. That’s what we’re dialoguing about. That’s what we’re going to support him through. But we’re also going to hold him accountable too.”

Ja Morant On The Court

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MAY 07: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies looks on against the Golden State Warriors in the second half of Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at Chase Center on May 07, 2022 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

“He understands. He’s made some difficult decisions and poor choices in the past that he’s got to account for and that’s why you see in his statement, it speaks for itself that he understands he needs to get help to get into a better place not just for himself, but for his team,” Jenkins continued. “He’s definitely embracing the mistakes that he’s made, but only time will tell. We are going to support him and hold him accountable to make those changes.”

The Grizzlies’ next two games are against the Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers. After that, they’ll be taking on the Warriors, the Mavericks, the Heat, and more. The Grizzlies currently sit in second place in the Western Conference standings. There have just 20 games remaining on their schedule before the beginning of the playoffs.

Taylor Jenkins’ Explanation

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Jalen Rose Delivers Candid Response To Ja Morant: “I’ve Been That Young Player”

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Jalen Rose reacted to Ja Morant’s recent Instagram Live post, in which he brandished a gun, on ABC’s pregame show on Saturday night before the Milwaukee Bucks took on the Philadelphia 76ers. Rose compared himself to the young Memphis Grizzlies star, explaining that he has experience with guns as well. The former NBA star said that he believes Morant will figure it out.

“I am Ja Morant,” Rose said after hearing from Stephen A. Smith and Michael Wilbon. “You guys got a chance to see me grow up for public consumption since 1991. I’ve been involved in drug raids, I’ve survived assassination attempts. I’ve been that undisciplined young person that was trying to figure out how to be famous, how to be successful, how to change the dynamics of my family.”

Jalen Rose On The Pacers

19 Jun 2000: Jalen Rose #5 of the Indiana Pacers with the ball as Glen Rice #41 of the Los Angeles Lakers gaurds him during the NBA Finals Game 6 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. The Lakers defeated the Pacers in 116-111. Credit: Tom Hauck /Allsport

“He has way too much to lose,” Rose said. “Trust me, I’ve been that young player carrying a gun, and Wilbon alluded to this: When you start waving it, that can get you killed. That’s an entirely different thing than we’re talking about a superstar athlete should be putting themself in position. And as Stephen A mentioned, that’s him on the video, on his IG Live. Ain’t nobody coaxing him, ain’t nobody egging him on to do that, that’s a personal choice.”

Rose went on to call fame a drug and praised Morant for owning up to his mistakes. Morant released a statement on Saturday apologizing for the live stream. The Grizzlies have since suspended him for a stretch of two games. “He’s a 23-year-old young man, nobody got arrested, nobody got injured, and I’m hearing too many stories about pistols, ok?” Rose continued. “Allegedly with the 17-year-old kid, allegedly with the Indiana Pacers staff, last night on IG Live, I saw the video like you guys did brandishing the gun. The next step to that is now recovery, and I believe he’s on that path, I’m happy that he’s on that path. He’s gonna return, and he’s gonna be a better person, and because of all of this taking place, he’s gonna be able to live his full potential.”

Jalen Rose On Ja Morant

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Ja Morant Addresses IG Live Gun Incident: “I Take Full Responsibility”

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Ja Morant has addressed his recent Instagram Live video, in which he flashed a gun in front of his followers early Saturday morning. The Memphis Grizzlies have since suspended Morant for the next two games in response. He will miss Sunday’s game against the LA Clippers and Tuesday’s against the Los Angeles Lakers. Morant spoke about the live stream in a statement provided to ESPN.

“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. 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,” he said, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

The Grizzlies Star In 2022

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – APRIL 16: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts during the first half of Game One of the Western Conference First Round against the Minnesota Timberwolves at FedExForum on April 16, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

NBA spokesman Mike Bass additionally confirmed that the league is investigating the incident as well. “We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating,” he said. Morant has also deactivated both his Instagram and Twitter accounts.

The antics from Morant come after the NBA recently investigated him for an incident that occurred after the Grizzlies’ Jan. 29 home win. There was reportedly a confrontation between friends of Morant and the Indiana Pacers’ traveling party. “While we substantiated that a postgame situation arose that was confrontational, based on interviews and other evidence gathered, we could not corroborate that any individual threatened others with a weapon,” Bass told The Athletic. “Certain individuals involved in the postgame situation and a related matter during the game that night have been subsequently banned from attending games in the arena. If additional information becomes available related to the postgame situation, the league office will conduct a further review.” His longtime friend, Davonte Pack, was banned from FedExForum.

Additionally, the Grizzlies will be without Dillon Brooks for their next game, after he was suspended for receiving his 16th technical foul of the season in Friday’s loss. The team is currently 38-24 and in second place in the Western Conference.

Ja Morant’s Statement

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Ja Morant Suspended For Two Games Following NBA Investigation

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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.

The Grizzlies Star Deactivates His Socials

Ja Morant Under NBA Investigation For Seemingly Flashing Gun

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The NBA opened an investigation into Ja Morant after he seemingly flashed a gun on his Instagram Live. Moreover, these accusations come after serious allegations that he threatened a 17-year-old with a firearm during an altercation at a pick-up game. Furthermore, the Grizzlies star went live on Friday night (March 3) after their loss to the Denver Nuggets, and seemed to be out at a strip club. In the clip, Morant danced around shirtless and rapped along to YoungBoy’s “Bring ‘Em Out.” Briefly, he held up what seemed to be a gun to the camera.

While it’s unclear whether it was a real firearm or not, the league sought to investigate the incident. “We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating,” wrote an NBA spokesperson in a statement. Also, they must have the alleged pick-up game at Morant’s Tennessee home in mind as well, as he faced accusations of threatening a young man with a gun. However, following a police investigation, officials declined prosecution in the end due to a lack of evidence. While this next one might seem like a small point, he also did finger gun celebrations during a game against the Houston Rockets.

Ja Morant Under NBA Investigation

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – FEBRUARY 28: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum on February 28, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Such actions and expressions could still fall out of line with league standards of behavior and decency. Still, it’s hard to argue that Ja is anything but a star at this point. As people reacted to the threat allegations, many still stood by his incredible playing. So far in his Memphis career, he helped bring them to two playoff appearances with a 22.5 points per game average. However, that visibility also comes with responsibility, and as such his actions are falling under heavier scrutiny from many.

Meanwhile, the 23-year-old recently responded to accusations of wrongdoing and similarly reckless behavior against his friend group, denying all claims. Moreover, people alleged that someone in his group pointed a red dot at a gaggle of Indiana Pacers fans. Whether it’s the wrong crowd or the wrong mentality, it seems like the star guard will have to work hard to clean his image. Regardless, check back in with HNHH for updates on these allegations and the latest from Ja Morant.

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Skip Bayless & Shannon Sharpe React To Ja Morant’s Alleged Threats

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It was inevitable that the latest reports surrounding Ja Morant would be discussed on Shannon Sharpe and Skip Bayless’s Undisputed. The Grizzlies’ point guard’s behavior off the court raised eyebrows throughout the past several months. He emerged as one of the leading players in the NBA but his actions are undoubtedly questionable. Sharpe previously warned Ja Morant to clean up his act, especially for an individual whose talents prevented him from diving into the streets. “I wish Ja would realize he’s not a thug,” Sharpe said earlier this month. “You’re not about that life! No one looks at you and thinks you’re hood. Stop pretending!!”

On Wednesday, reports emerged claiming Ja Morant threatened a 17-year-old during a pick-up game and a mall security guard in a separate incident. Morant allegedly flashed a gun during a pick-up game and punched the teen repeatedly last summer. He hasn’t publicly responded to the claims. Still, many individuals, such as Shannon Sharpe and Skip Bayless, expressed their disappointment in his overall behavior and lack of professionalism when he isn’t on the NBA court.

Shannon Sharpe & Skip Bayless Chime aIn 

On the latest episode of Undisputed, Sharpe passionately slammed Morant for “hustling backward.” Shannon Sharpe explained that Morant’s done the opposite of what an actual gangster does when they get legitimate money. He brought up infamous gangsters like John Gotti — while Skip mentioned fictional mobster Tony Soprano — who remained lowkey publicly. “Skip, he portrays something that he’s not,” Sharpe told Skip Bayless. “I don’t get Ja. He’s hustling backward.”

Meanwhile, Skip Bayless reflects on the moments involving Ja Morant that “disturbed” him, including allegations that his friends pointed a red laser at the Pacers’. He explained that the common thread between the altercations with the 17-year-old, the security guard, and the Pacers incident is the individuals surrounding him – echoing a sentiment Sharpe said in the past. Bayless explained that Ja’s friends are dragging him down before Sharpe interjected to double down on claims that Morant’s pretending to be something that he’s not. Check out Shannon Sharpe and Skip Bayless’s discussion surrounding the reports on Ja Morant above. 

Ja Morant Threat Allegations: Twitter Reacts

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Twitter blew up with reactions to disturbing allegations made against Ja Morant on Wednesday (March 1). Moreover, the Memphis Grizzlies star allegedly threatened a 17-year-old with a gun after the latter threw a ball at him during a pick-up game. Furthermore, this news follows previous reports that the teen is suing Morant for assaulting him. While the NBA player hasn’t said anything publicly of this as of yet, he did post an Instagram Story of the track “No Weapon.” If reading too deeply into social media posts is you’re thing, you’re in luck. If not, people still had some notable reactions to this news.

Even though this altercation seems like it could’ve happened anywhere, Morant actually hosted the pick-up game at his residence. Also, the 23-year-old admitted to hitting the teen, but claimed that it was only because of self-defense. Not only is Morant directly tied to this incident, but also some of his family members like allegedly his brother. From a defendant’s perspective, it seems like the family felt in danger after the teen’s actions. However, it’s very unclear who misinterpreted who in this scenario, and who sought to escalate things in this way.

Fans React To Ja Morant Threat Allegations

However, it’s not the first in a string of alleged threats or controversies the young guard is tied to. For example, a close friend allegedly pointed a red dot at a group of Indiana Pacers supporters after a game. Shortly after accusations spread around social media, he quickly denied such claims. “Did a investigation seen they were cappin,” he tweeted. “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.”

Meanwhile, these new revelations about Morant come from previously unpublished interviews concerning the incident. “The teenage boy told police that after Morant punched him, the NBA star emerged from his house with a gun in the waistband of his pants, according to police interviews obtained by The Post that not been previously reported,” reporter Molly Hensley-Clancy of The Washington Post tweeted. Regardless of your take, check out more reactions down below and return to HNHH for updates on Ja Morant.

Morant’s Alleged Actions Prompt Responses