(New Orleans) The 25-game suspension of Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant, imposed following his social media misconduct including handling firearms, ended Tuesday, which means he will be eligible to return to action against the New Orleans Pelicans.
“He’s been great, excluding the fact that he hasn’t been able to play games,” Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins said Friday night, shortly before the Tennessee club’s most recent home game. He took advantage of every opportunity to be with his teammates. He was very involved with the team; he collaborated in many ways off the field with his teammates. »
Under his suspension, Morant was able to practice and travel with the Grizzlies, as well as take part in morning warm-up sessions. However, he had to stay away from the team during matches.
Jenkins said Morant, who has played in the NBA All-Star Game twice, has been involved in practice in recent weeks. He also participated in video conferences with his teammates during the meetings.
Morant, who spoke with reporters for the first time this season on Friday, said he was counting down the days to his return. He added that he was grateful to still be a part of this league. , with his team.
The second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, who was named the 2020 Rookie of the Year and the 2022 Most Improved Player, was suspended for a total of 33 games after being caught for live-streaming a video showing him with a gun in his hand on March 4.