Ja Morant Returns from Suspension, Makes Season Debut with Memphis Grizzlies
Ja Morant, a two-time NBA All-Star, made his season debut against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night after missing the first 25 games of the season due to suspension for brandishing a gun in public multiple times over the last year. Accompanied by veteran guard Derrick Rose, Morant arrived at the Smoothie King Center with a focused and business-like demeanor, eager to make an impact on the court.
“It’s great to have Ja back,” Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said. “He’s gone through a lot. Getting one of our leaders and core players back. The team’s fired up. He’s going to inject a lot of life into the group. It’s perfect timing.”
During the game against the Pelicans, Morant displayed a cautious yet deliberate approach, checking back in with 1:47 to go in the first quarter and making strong moves on both ends of the floor, all the while being a passenger and finding his footing.
In a recent interview, Morant mentioned that he had spoken to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and that he had benefited from his time away, finding the experience to be “very eye-opening.” He also expressed that he did not regret the situation, as it ultimately helped him grow as a person.
The Grizzlies have struggled mightily in Morant’s absence, opening the door for the growth of other players, such as Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., who have shown improvement in their roles.
The return of Morant has injected new life into the Grizzlies, and fans can watch his comeback on TNT or NBA League Pass.