By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
There’s no definitive timeline for Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant to return to the team, coach Taylor Jenkins said Sunday before the team’s loss to the LA Clippers.
The team had initially said Morant would be away for at least two games as he seeks help and the NBA conducts an investigation into the Instagram Live video he posted early Saturday morning, in which he displayed what appeared to be a gun while at a nightclub.
“We have said that it’s going to be at least these two games,” Jenkins said. “I mean, this is going be an ongoing healing process. … It’s really not a timetable situation.”
Jenkins said the team’s focus was on supporting Morant through what’s “going to be a difficult process” but also on holding him accountable for his actions.
“We’re taking this very seriously,” Jenkins said. “There’s a supportive element for someone that’s got to get better and needs some help. But then there’s also accountability to the team that we’ve got to stand for.
“Obviously nationwide, leaguewide, there’s been a lot of attention on gun violence, and so for us, that’s the stance that we’ve taken about how we can support Ja throughout this growth opportunity. It’s a learning opportunity, and hopefully, we can be better from it.”
In addition to the Instagram video Saturday, Morant has been involved in several incidents in which he or acquaintances of his were alleged to have brandished a firearm.
Following Sunday’s game, Grizzlies players expressed confidence in Morant taking the necessary steps toward accountability, and the team’s ability to move forward.
“He’s a resilient guy, tough-minded guy,” Desmond Bane said. “Whenever he’s ready to come back, we’ll welcome him with open arms.”
Tyus Jones, who said he’s talked with Morant a couple times since the Instagram Live video was posted, described the situation as “an emotional time” and “something we’re dealing with in-house.”
“I’m confident that Ja is going to handle his business and continue to do what he needs to do to get himself in the right place,” Jones said. “When it’s time to continue to play basketball, he’ll be ready … whenever it may be.”
Jenkins said Morant’s acknowledgement of the severity of the situation and willingness to seek help were heartening.
“The focus right now is Ja’s taking on the responsibility to really get the help he needs to get into a better place,” Jenkins said. “But also … to be in a better place to embrace the responsibilities and expectations as a member of this team. That’s what we’re going to support him through, but we’re also going to hold him accountable, too.”
The league, if it finds wrongdoing, could fine or suspend Morant. The NBA collective bargaining agreement forbids players from possessing a firearm while at an NBA facility or traveling for league business. In 2010, the NBA suspended Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas indefinitely for bringing weapons to the team’s locker room.