Morant suspended by Grizzlies after rebuking coaching staff

Washington (AFP) – Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant was suspended for one game by the NBA club on Saturday for conduct detrimental to the team for comments made after a loss Friday. Morant, who is averaging 20.8 points and 6.7 assists a game, will miss the Grizzlies’ game on Sunday at Toronto.

Morant spoke out regarding the coaching staff after a 117-112 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, following which Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iliaso reportedly challenged Morant’s effort and leadership. In the home loss to the Lakers, Morant scored only eight points on 3-of-14 shooting.

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Asked after the game about his performance, Morant told reporters multiple times to “go ask the coaching staff.” Asked what the Grizzlies could have done better to improve their chances, Morant said: “According to them, probably don’t play me, honestly. That’s what basically the message was. It’s cool.”

Memphis is off to a 3-3 start to the season.

© 2024 AFP