The NBA’s investigation into Ja Morant is nearing its conclusion.
Commissioner Adam Silver revealed before the Nuggets and Heat tipped off the NBA Finals that the league will wait to reveal its results, though he hinted at some bombshell findings regarding the embattled Grizzlies star.
“We’ve uncovered a fair amount of additional information,” Silver told reporters. “We probably could have brought it to a head now, but we’ve made the decision that it would be unfair to these players and these teams to announce that decision in the middle of this series.”
Morant’s status is up in the air as he’s suspended from all Grizzlies team activities after appearing to flash a gun while in a car in a May 13 Instagram Live video — the second time he’s brandished a weapon on social media in the last few months.
The league revealed it was reviewing the incident, and it appears resolution is coming in the next couple of weeks.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver speaks to reporters before Game 1 of the NBA Finals.APIt could result in a suspension for Morant, who already saw one in March — eight games without pay — after his first gun-related video in a Denver-area strip club.
Morant, 23, also recently posted a series of cryptic messages to his Instagram story that was soon deleted, featuring messages to his sister, mom, dad and daughter before a final post said “bye.”
The posts prompted a wellness check from the police, who said, “he is fine,” and the point guard told them “that he is taking a break from social media.”
Ja Morant may face another suspension after a second gun-related video on social media.NBAE via Getty ImagesThis came after months of reported bad behavior from Morant and his entourage: he threatened a mall security guard and assaulted a teen during a pick-up game at his house during separate incidents last summer, while a member of his crew was banned from Memphis’ FedExForum after members of the Pacers complained about having a laser pointed at them after a game.
Silver seemed to still be searching for answers Thursday.
“I don’t think we yet know what it will take to change his behavior,” he said.
Ja Morant seen with a gun on Instagram Live.Youtube
Ja Morant holding a firearm in an Instagram Live video in March 2023.Twitter DJ Akademiks @Akademiks
Before his March suspension, Morant met with the commissioner and other members of the league’s front office, with Silver not shying away from the gravity of the situation.
“Ja’s conduct was irresponsible, reckless and potentially very dangerous,” he said in a statement. “It also has serious consequences given his enormous following and influence, particularly among young fans who look up to him.
Morant has acknowledged his behavior after each incident.
“I know I’ve disappointed a lot of people who have supported me. This is a journey, and I recognize there is more work to do,” he said in his only public comments since the latest firearm incident. “My words may not mean much right now, but I take full accountability for my actions. I’m committed to continuing to work on myself.”
He may find himself with plenty of time to do so once the NBA Finals are over.
