The NBA suspended Memphis Grizzles star Ja Morant for 25 games after he flashed a gun in a livestream video in May.
In a similar incident in March, Ja, real name Temetrius Morant, was suspended for 8 games for flashing a gun in a Denver nightclub.
“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,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in a statement on 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.”
Retired NBA player Kendrick Perkins said Ja, 23, should leave Memphis because “He’s in too deep.” Perkins implied that Ja’s life is in danger in Memphis.
“Ja Morant needs a change of scenery… he should go to the Miami Heat,” said Perkins on ESPN’s “First Take.”
“It’s actually a lot deeper than the game of basketball,” said Perkins.
“The reason why I say that Ja Morant needs a change of scenery in my opinion is that I’m talking about for his own well being and his safety, and I’m gonna leave it that,” said Perkins.
In another podcast, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith predicted Ja Morant won’t be alive in 5 years.
Watch the video below.
