The NBPA is not happy with the NBA for suspending Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant for 25 games.
NBPA Executive Director Tamika Tremaglio issued the following statement regarding the suspension of Morant, who was suspended for 25 games because he showed a gun during an IG Live video for a second time.
“Ja has expressed his remorse and accepted responsibility for his actions, and we support him unequivocally as he does whatever is necessary to represent himself, our players and our league in the best possible light,” Tremaglio said.
“As to the discipline imposed, which keeps him off the court until December and requires some unstated conditions to be met before he can return, we believe it is excessive and inappropriate for a number of reasons including the facts involved in this particular incident, and that it is not fair and consistent with past discipline in our league,” Tremaglio explained. “We will explore with Ja all options and next steps.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ja Morant & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Morant’s suspension begins immediately and will remain in effect through the first 25 games of the 2023-24 season. The All-Star will have to adhere to certain conditions before being reinstated and is ineligible to participate in any public league or team activities, including preseason games, during the course of his suspension.
“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 Friday. “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.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ja Morant & Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Morant is due to make around $33.5 million next season. He stands to lose just over $300,000 per game during this suspension, or approximately $7.5 million.
“For Ja, basketball needs to take a back seat at this time,” Silver said. “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.”
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