Memphis Grizzlies’ Ja Morant isn’t just a phenomenal talent on the court. He is a dynamic force who blends explosiveness, creativity, and leadership. But beneath the highlights lies a complexity that can make some free agents hesitant to join forces with him. In an article by Scott Thomas, he provides details about why ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith feels like Morant is the real reason why free agents don’t want to come to Memphis.
“The people in Memphis, it’s a great sports town â great fans, great people â but there’s an element there where cats like Jimmy Butler and others don’t feel like it’s the safest environment,” Smith explained, via Front Office Sports.
“I’m talking to the local authorities in Memphis. You’ve got to clean some of that stuff up because it’s dissuasive to NBA players. They have talked about it. I know. They’ve told me. That’s all I’m saying.”
Morant’s Issues with Guns
Morant burst onto the NBA scene as an explosive talent, a two-time All-Star known for his electrifying drives and leadership on the court. Yet, his off-court choices involving firearms have repeatedly overshadowed his on-court achievements and posed serious challenges to his career.
Morant first came under scrutiny when, during an Instagram Live session at a nightclub, he brandished a handgun. The video went viral, prompting the Memphis Grizzlies to suspend him and the NBA to hand down an eight-game suspension. Though he entered a counseling program and issued a public apology, the incident began a troubling pattern.
A few months later, another video surfaced this time showing him in a vehicle, again visibly handling a gun. The reaction was swift as another suspension was issued, this one longer and tied to mandatory league-mandated counseling. Teammates, franchise leaders, and league authorities have signaled increasing concern over the guidance and accountability in his conduct.
Morant Injuries
Morant has periodically battled minor issues such as knees, ankles, wrists, and back. These soft-tissue issues haven’t derailed his seasons but have led to missed practices and reduced training sessions. For a player whose explosiveness is his lifeblood, optimal conditioning is paramount, and even slight physical hiccups can interfere with his rhythm.
“Did you know he was on the injured list 15 times this season with eight different ailments â hamstring, shoulder, knee, foot, hip, thigh, illness?” said Smith. “Fifteen times. The best ability is availability. If there’s a question about his availability, now it’s a different discussion. I need you on that damn court,â said Smith.
Morant is undeniably one of basketball’s brightest young stars. But his recurring firearm-related incidents and injuries have marred his reputation, cost him dearly, and diverted attention from his game. Most NBA players want to go to a team where they can win and play with a proven superstar. The next step in his career will be mastering injuries and avoiding guns as he looks to help draw free agents and win more games.
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