Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies is one of the NBA's best players. However, after a sudden turn of events, a problem concerning him has emerged and could dictate the course of his career.
According to a Washington Post story, Morant was involved in a confrontation with and "threatened" a Memphis mall security director in the mall's parking lot during the summer.
The Grizzlies star was reportedly among a group that confronted a Memphis mall security director. Morant's mother had a disagreement with an employee at a store in the mall, which led to her calling Morant to the mall. Someone in the group pushed the security director in the head, according to the police report. Police came to the scene, but no arrests were made. An incident report was filed.
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The Post also reported that Morant, a two-time All-Star, punched a 17-year old teenager during a pickup game. In a September lawsuit, the teen accused Morant of returning after retrieving a gun.
The Shelby County District Attorney's Office declined to press charges. The lawsuit filed by the teen is reportedly ongoing, according to TMZ. Morant said he was acting in self defense.
Fans couldn't help but share their thoughts. We've collected some of the best reactions from fans regarding Morant's off-court issues that took place over the summer. Here are some of the best.
Also read: What is Ja Morant being accused of? Understanding the allegations for 2 incidents of assault
Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes share advice for Ja Morant
Ja Morant seems to be getting himself into trouble because of who he surrounds himself with. Other than the two offseason incidents, he was involved with an issue regarding the Indiana Pacers staff where his entourage became the subject. At this point, Morant should be bothered with what's happening regarding him.
Two former NBA players, Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson, shared words of advice on what Morant should do at this point in time.
"I'll tell him to distance himself from anybody that don't have the same vision or the same people don't feel the same way about him losing everything," Jackson said. "You can't care aboue these things because I care about it, you have to care about it, because you don't want me to lose everything that I've worked for."
Barnes said:
"I just think Ja has to understand what's at risk. Obviously, his talent is unbelievable. This guy can make a ton of money, not only playing the game, but he just got a (Nike) signature shoe. ... At the end of the day, some people are your people. Sometimes, I think it'll get to the point if you realize you gotta let somebody go."
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