Grizzlies player Ja Morant responds to criticism amid recent backlash from fans and media

Despite dealing with inconsistencies throughout the season, the Memphis Grizzlies have managed to stay competitive in the Western Conference. They currently sit in seventh place, which gives them access to the playoffs. The roster features talented players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Scotty Pippen Jr., and Ja Morant. The latter has faced criticism for his off-court behavior. In response, Morant did not stay silent and quickly addressed the comments made about him.

“I’m kind of used to it…I was pretty much a villain for two years now. Every little thing – if somebody can say something negative about me, it’s going to be out there. Yeah, I don’t care anymore,” stated Ja Morant on The Athletic. All this was because he was criticized for doing finger-shooting motions in celebration of the victory over the Miami Heat.

Ja Morant is no stranger to controversy. He already received two major sanctions that kept him off the court for 33 games. The first came after he showed a gun during an Instagram Live. As a result, the league suspended him for eight games. Then came a second suspension, triggered by another gun incident at a nightclub in Denver. After this, the NBA decided to suspend him for 25 games.

Even though his behavior has raised concerns, his level of play this season has been exceptional. He played 47 games with the Memphis Grizzlies and averaged 22.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 7.3 assists. He currently leads the team in both scoring and assists. Although he has not matched his 2021–22 season numbers, his impact remains huge. Because of that, fans continue to believe in a deep playoff run.

Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies brings the ball up court during the second half against the Los Angeles Lakers

NBA announces major decision on Ja Morant following Grizzlies vs Heat game

During the Memphis Grizzlies’ win over the Miami Heat, Ja Morant celebrated a three-pointer with finger-shooting motions. He did it with 7:51 left in the first quarter. The gesture caught attention because it was not the first time.

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In a recent game against the Golden State Warriors, Morant had made the same motion. The league warned him after that incident. However, he repeated the gesture against Miami. As a result, the NBA decided to take immediate action and disciplined Morant for his behavior.

“Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant has been fined $75,000 for twice making an inappropriate gesture on the playing court, it was announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. Morant was previously warned by the league office that this gesture could be interpreted in a negative light,” stated the NBA.