One of the most promising players in the current generation, Ja Morant, has often found himself at the wrong end of things. However, this time around, the Memphis Grizzlies guard doesn’t appear to be at fault. Giving context to the subject, Big 12 was at the receiving end of a controversial officiating call, which ended up with him having to exit the game.
Hosting the Sacramento Kings, Coach Taylor Jenkins looked to maintain Grizz’s impressive record at home, which, after Thursday night’s win, stands at 11-3. Nonetheless, the biggest takeaway from the game was Morant’s questionable ejection, leading to quite the uproar.
Ja Morant Reacts to the NBA Admitting His Wrongful Ejection
Breaking Down Ja Morant’s Ejection
A tight contest from the go, Morant would find himself in trouble in the fourth quarter. The 2022 MIP received two technical fouls in the game’s final minutes due to his grievances against the officiating. Defending DeMar DeRozan, the former ROTY was issued a foul in what appeared to be a legal guarding position. Losing his composure, Morant was vividly animated, leading to his second technical of the night.
Ja Morant was ejected for this “foul” on Demar DeRozan.
Atrocious Call.
pic.twitter.com/CyE6RnNZsH— Grizz Lead (@Grizz_Lead) December 6, 2024
Nonetheless, the league issued an official statement on the situation postgame, admitting a lapse. Responding to the action, Morant tweeted a laughing emoji.
— Ja Morant (@JaMorant) December 6, 2024
Fortunately for the Grizzlies, they ended up winning the game with the bench playing a vital role, combining for 60 points. On the other hand, it was a lackluster outing for Ja, who had a mere 8 points on 2-for-13 shooting from the field. Regardless, the 25-year-old is looking to reclaim the spotlight, especially after missing most of last season due to his shoulder injury.
Not to forget his off-court disputes, which earned him a suspension of as much as 25 games. Despite all of this, Morant continues to be a major draw, given his freakish athleticism and well-rounded skill set. The two-time All-Star is also surrounded by an equally talented cast in Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Marcus Smart.
Morant Looks to Exercise Caution in His High-Flying Abilities
A walking highlight reel, Morant has accounted for some of the most jaw-dropping dunks in recent times. But, beyond all the theatrics, the Memphis guard has endured his share of injuries, too. At 6″2′, the Murray State alumnus doesn’t have the frame of a LeBron James, allowing him to go drive through the traffic in the paint.
Recently, Morant revealed how he had no plans of flashy dunks going forward and wanted to prioritize his health. The Grizz superstar is currently averaging 20.9 PPG, 8.5 APG, and 4.0 RPG, having missed a few weeks in the middle due to his hip injury.
Ja Morant says he's prioritizing his health over making highlight dunks in NBA games. pic.twitter.com/s6AdDb4iot
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) December 4, 2024
Given the talent on the roster, Memphis have a strong chance to make contend in the West. Yet, a huge part of this depends on the availability of Big 12. The Grizz came very close in 2022 to creating history but were ousted by the Warriors in the semi-finals.
Therefore, Morant needs to ensure he steers away from all noise and prioritizes his game over everything else, as the Grizzlies have all the potential to surprise us come the playoffs.
