Feb 12, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) during the second half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
NBA: Memphis Grizzlies at Boston Celtics
(New York, NY) — Ja Morant’s highly anticipated return to the Memphis Grizzlies has been put on hold.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Morant will be away from the team for at least four more games. The 23-year-old was cleared of all charges by Gelndale Police today, but could still potentially face additional discipline from the NBA or the Grizzlies.
Morant’s absence from stems from incident last weekend where he brandished a gun on Instagram Live. The star guard is reportedly seeking help as part of an “ongoing healing process,” according to head coach Taylor Jenkins. Morant issued an apology.
“I take full responsibility for my actions last night,” he said. “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.”
It’s unclear if the four games are self-imposed or ordered by his team.
Memphis has lost both game since Morant’s suspension, dropping to third in the Western Conference. The Grizzlies will host the Warriors on Thursday.
