NBA Investigating Ja Morant Over Finger Gun Gesture Towards Warriors Bench
Memphis, TN – The NBA has launched an investigation into Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant after he was seen making a finger gun gesture toward the Golden State Warriors bench during Tuesday night’s game, according to a report by NBA insider Shams Charania.
The incident, which quickly sparked reactions across the league and social media, occurred during a tense moment in the game. Morant, who has already faced multiple suspensions for previous gun-related controversies, appeared to mimic shooting motions with his fingers while engaging with players on the Warriors’ sideline. The league is now reviewing the footage and assessing whether further disciplinary action is warranted.
NBA’s Crackdown on Player Conduct
The NBA has taken a firm stance on issues related to gun violence and inappropriate gestures in recent years. Morant, a two-time All-Star, was suspended for 25 games earlier this season after two separate incidents involving firearms surfaced on social media. Commissioner Adam Silver made it clear at the time that any future infractions could carry significant consequences.
“We take matters like this very seriously,” Silver said after Morant’s previous suspension. “The responsibility of being an NBA player extends beyond the court, and we expect our athletes to conduct themselves accordingly.”
While Morant’s recent action did not involve an actual weapon, the symbolism of the gun-like motion has raised concerns, especially given his past disciplinary history. The NBA is expected to review all angles of the footage before determining the next steps.
Grizzlies and Warriors React
Neither the Grizzlies nor the Warriors have issued an official statement regarding the matter, but insiders suggest that some players on the Warriors’ bench took offense to the gesture. Warriors forward Draymond Green, known for his outspoken nature, was seen engaging in an animated exchange with Morant following the incident.
Meanwhile, Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins defended his star player when asked about the situation postgame.
“Ja plays with a lot of emotion and passion,” Jenkins said. “We’ll let the league do its job, but our focus remains on basketball and supporting our guys.”
A Troubling Pattern?
For Morant, this latest controversy adds to a growing list of off-court issues that have clouded his otherwise promising career. Once viewed as the future face of the league, he has struggled to shake off the repercussions of his previous gun-related incidents.
Morant has maintained that he has learned from his past mistakes, but the NBA’s decision on this latest investigation could determine whether he faces further disciplinary action.
What Happens Next?
The NBA is expected to announce its findings in the coming days, with potential penalties ranging from a fine to another suspension. With Memphis currently struggling in the standings, another absence for Morant would be a major blow to the team’s season.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on the NBA and whether the league decides to send a stronger message regarding player conduct.
