The NBA handed down a significant 25-game suspension to Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant on Friday, citing "conduct detrimental to the league." This disciplinary action follows an investigation into a second incident involving Morant displaying a firearm on social media.

Commissioner Adam Silver expressed his alarm and disappointment regarding Morant's repeated behavior, emphasizing the negative influence it could have on young people. The suspension, effective immediately and without pay, will cover the first 25 games of the 2023-24 season. Silver stressed the importance of Morant prioritizing personal growth over basketball during this period. The league mandates that Morant participate in a program designed to address the underlying issues that led to these incidents before he can return to the court.

This suspension comes after an eight-game suspension in March for a similar incident where Morant displayed a gun on Instagram Live while intoxicated at a Denver nightclub. The NBA's statement highlighted Morant's awareness of being recorded during the second incident, despite previous commitments to avoid such behavior. The financial impact of the suspension is substantial, costing Morant roughly $7.5 million in lost salary.

Morant issued a statement expressing remorse and apologizing to the NBA, the Grizzlies organization, his teammates, the city of Memphis, and his fans. He acknowledged the harm he caused and pledged to improve both personally and professionally. While the specific conditions for his return remain undisclosed, the NBA has made it clear that Morant must meet certain criteria before resuming his basketball career.