Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant could receive a lengthy suspension at the start of next season after he was featured on social media brandishing a handgun in a club. Morant was punished for nearly the exact same thing back in March and received an eight-game suspension.
Upon hearing of Morant’s second offense, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said he was taken off guard by the development. After the first incident, Morant pledged to work on himself and provide a better example to young fans.
“Honestly, I was shocked when I saw this weekend that video,” Silver told ESPN at the draft lottery Tuesday. “Now, we’re in the process of investigating it, and we’ll figure out exactly what happened to the best we can. The video is a bit grainy and all that, but I’m assuming the worst.”
Morant has already been suspended by the Grizzlies from all team activities, but the league’s investigation is still ongoing and could lead to a significant in-season suspension. Some analysts claim he could miss the entire season.
Following Silver’s comments on the issue, Morant issued a statement that echoes the one he made after his first offense. He recognized that his promises this time around carried less weight but affirmed that he was still working on moving forward.
“I know I’ve disappointed a lot of people who have supported me,” Morant said in the statement. “This is a journey and I recognize there is more work to do. My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.”
Since Morant released his statement, Nike has pulled his signature shoe from its app, a clear sign that the company is distancing itself from the star. Further endorsements and partnerships could fall through as the league’s investigation carries on.
