Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has been suspended without pay by the NBA, following an investigation into his gun video on Instagram.
Morant has been under investigation by police and the NBA for posting a video on social media - allegedly showing him flashing a gun while posing in a club on March 4. Morant was already suspended by the Grizzlies following the incident, but has now been hit with an eight-game layoff by the league.
The NBA investigation into Morant did not conclude that the gun belonged to the Grizzlies star, or was brought by him into the night club or was displayed by him beyond a brief period, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. But he will sit out without pay until March 20, when he's eligible to return for their clash against the Dallas Mavericks.
Police cleared Morant's name following an investigation last week, and posted a statement regarding the case. "On March 4, 2023, the Glendale Police Department was alerted by members of the media of a video circulating on the internet that involved a prominent NBA player singing and holding what appeared to be a firearm by the butt end of a gun for several seconds," the statement read.
"Through investigation, the GPD was able to determine the incident took place at Shotgun Willies, located in the City of Glendale, during the club's lawful operating hours. GPD was not able to determine that probable cause existed for the filing of any charges.
"In this case, it should be noted that on the night in question the GPD did not receive any calls for service at the nightclub regarding a weapon of any type. Subsequently, no disturbances were reported, and no citizens or patrons of the club came forward to make a complaint.
"The investigation also concluded that no one was threatened or menaced with the firearm and in fact no firearm was ever located. Although the video was concerning enough to prompt an investigation, there was not enough available evidence to charge anyone with a crime. Under our justice system all persons are presumed innocent until proven otherwise."
Following the news, Morant pledged to 'take some time' to work on himself, and may be feeling grateful that the suspension is only eight games. "I take full responsibility for my actions," Morant said. "I’m sorry to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, partners, the city of Memphis and the entire Grizzlies organisation 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." The Grizzlies remain second in the Western Conference even without Morant, with a record of 41-26.
