Rumors are swirling that Ja Morant, the star point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, is facing a 50-game suspension after an Instagram live video of him flashing a gun spread on the internet. The news has sent shockwaves throughout the league, with fans and analysts speculating on the potential impact of such a lengthy suspension on Morant’s career and the Grizzlies’ season. While no official announcement has been made by the NBA or the Grizzlies, the rumor has sparked a debate on the league’s firearm policy and the importance of player accountability. In this article, we will examine the details of the rumor, explore the potential consequences of Morant’s suspension, and consider the broader implications for the NBA.
How true is the 50-game suspension for Ja Morant?
A parody account of NBA Central’s Twitter page (@TheNBACantrel) created fake news that Ja Morant has been suspended for 50 games by the NBA. As of this writing, the NBA nor the Memphis Grizzlies has made such a decision. However, Ja Morant has been away from the team indefinitely.
https://twitter.com/TheNBACantrel/status/1633164282920828930
The NBA as well as the Colorado Police Department has already begun its investigation of the controversial gun video involving Ja Morant. NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement on Saturday that “We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating”. According to the Memphis Grizzlies, they are willing to suspend or fine Ja Morant if proven guilty of wrong actions.
In 5 years, Ja Morant will either become an elite NBA Superstar or a ESPN 30 for 30 subject. pic.twitter.com/9L3dPfMvzO
— Samé (@somalinomad21) March 4, 2023
Is a 50-game suspension possible?
According to a rule in the CBA (Collective Agreement Bargaining) agreed upon by the NBA and the NBPA (National Basketball Players Association), Ja Morant could definitely suffer a lengthy suspension if proven guilty. The writing below is the exact words written in the CBA.
Section 9. Firearms and Other Weapons. (a) Whenever a player is physically present at a facility or venue owned, operated, or being used by a Team, the NBA, or any League-related entity, and whenever a player is traveling on any NBA-related business, whether on behalf of the player’s Team, the NBA, or any League-related entity, such player shall not possess a firearm of any kind or any other deadly weapon. For purposes of the foregoing, “a facility or venue” includes, but is not limited to: an arena; a practice facility; a Team or League office or facility; an All-Star or NBA Playoff venue; and the site of a promotional or charitable appearance.
(c) Any violation of Section 9(a) or Section 9(b) above shall be considered conduct prejudicial to the NBA under Article 35(d) of the NBA Constitution and By-Laws, and shall therefore subject the player to discipline by the NBA in accordance with such Article.
It so happens that Ja Morant’s gun video apparently took place somewhere in Colorado, after a loss against the Denver Nuggets. This means that Morant or any of his confidants brought a firearm without probable cause. Truly, the 50-game suspension is just a rumor. However, the 2-time NBA All-Star could definitely suffer a punishment of the same magnitude. Furthermore, the police are also looking into the controversy which could mean that Ja Morant will face legal consequences. If so, this adds to his ongoing assault case filed by a 17-year-old high schooler on September 2022.
What do you think will happen to Ja Morant’s career? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. For more content, stay with us, here at Spiel Times.
OTHER NEWS: Ja Morant accused of assaulting a 17-year-old – What really happened?
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