Over the past several months, questions regarding Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant’s upcoming 25-game suspension were circulating, with perhaps the most significant inquiry being whether he’d be eligible to be present with the team during non-game functions such as practices, workouts, meetings, etc.
During Monday’s Media Day, said query was ultimately answered, as GM Zach Kleiman noted that the point guard would, in fact, be permitted to attend team functions during his league-issued hiatus.
"“I think it’s great for Ja, and I think it’s great for the group that he can be with us day-to-day,” Kleiman said. “The NBA basically has said that as long as Ja continues to stay on track, he’s going to be clear to participate in all private team activities, so practices, shootarounds, traveling with the team.”"
Though Morant was not in attendance for Content Day, he participated in the club’s first practice on October 3 and ESPN’s Tim MacMahon managed to capture his highly anticipated return to the hardwood alongside his Grizzlies teammates.
Video surfaces of Ja Morant making his anticipated return to Grizzlies practice
Ja Morant at Grizzlies practice: pic.twitter.com/z4mJZMA340
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) October 3, 2023
Morant’s impending suspension will mark his second over the last seven months for participating in conduct deemed detrimental to the league, as he was seen flashing a gun on an Instagram live stream back in mid-May.
Unfortunately, this was almost identical to the situation that resulted in his first suspension back in March, though the punishment was far less drastic as it resulted in just an eight-game suspension.
On top of him being permitted to attend team events, head coach Taylor Jenkins stated during Media Day that the Grizzlies have a plan in place to help Morant try and steer clear of any future off-court mishaps.
One of the game’s brightest stars, aside from his unfortunate decision-making, the 24-year-old put forth yet another stellar campaign during the 2022-23 season, as he came away posting tremendous averages of 26.2 points, 8.1 assists, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.1 steals on 46.6 percent shooting from the field.
Though his absence will undoubtedly be felt when the Grizzlies take to the hardwood for early season action, it’s encouraging to know that he’ll still be with the team for the majority of his league-issued suspension.
MacMahon’s video may be a bit bland to some, but for Memphis fans, it’s one that should spark high levels of excitement.
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