NBA fans distraught at Ja Morant "not trying to dunk at all": "Intentionally hurting your team?"

Ja Morant revealed why he has cut down on dunking after the Memphis Grizzlies' 121-116 loss Tuesday to the Dallas Mavericks. Morant said he's decided to avoid injuries and keep himself fit for the long NBA season.

"I'm not trying to dunk at all. Y'all think I'm lying. I'm dead serious. Sometimes I get knocked out the air and (a foul) don't get called, and now I'm out longer than what I'm supposed to be. Sometimes the foul might get called; I still hit the floor, but after the game you might feel that little fall. So I just pick and choose, man ... That's all that matters," Ja Morant told reporters.

Most fans on social media were not having it, as Morant has been known for his signature dunks.

"So you’re intentionally hurting your team? What a loser"

Some welcomed the decision as they felt it was a means for him to be available late in the season when the games matter more.

"AI used to be dunking all the time but injuries happened and he started not dunking and just doing lay ups and crossovers I think Ja is doing the smart thing here," a fan wrote.

"No more Ja insane dunks but if it helps his career i don’t mind one bit," another fan wrote.

"Gotta do what you gotta do I suppose. Protecting the career that's paying the bills is probably a good move. It doesn't make for the best highlight reel though," a fan added.

"Smart choice, Ja. Staying healthy is key—two points is just as good as a dunk!," another fan commented.

"I figured that when he had that wide open fast break and didn’t do anything special," a fan added.

There was a moment during the NBA Cup loss to the Mavs when Morant had an opportunity to dunk after he was set free. He chose not to do so.

Injuries and suspensions have hindered Morant. He has never played more than 67 games since he was drafted. This season, he is averaging 22.0 ppg, 8.6 apg, and 4.1 rpg but has also dealt with thigh, hip and knee injuries.

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What's next for Morant and the Grizzlies?

Ja Morant and the Grizzlies have been on a roll in recently, outside of Tuesday's loss to Dallas. In that game, Morant scored 31 points, added four assists and grabbed two rebounds.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) celebrates with Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane (22) - Source: Imagn

The Grizzlies currently occupy the third spot on the Western Conference standings. They will hope to return to winning ways when they face the Washington Wizards Thursday.