NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed on Saturday that the Memphis Grizzlies’ point guard Ja Morant has met all league requirements to make a comeback after a long suspension.
Since the start of the 2023-24 season, Morant had to serve a 25-game suspension for two gun-related incidents earlier this year.
The commissioner announced his plans for a meeting with Morant and league officials this week in anticipation of his return. Silver disclosed the information during a media briefing before the In-Season Tournament Finals between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Indiana Pacers today on December 10.
“I have been monitoring the situation closely, and in fact, we intend to have a check-in this week directly,” Silver said about Morant’s return. “Ja and I, folks in the league office together with Ja and his team, and the Players Association, have been in regular contact, essentially weekly.”
Silver mentioned that over the past few weeks, a program was specially established for Morant. Based on his understanding, Morant has “complied with everything he’s been asked to do.” The NBA Commissioner further expressed the intention to review the program to ensure that the necessary conditions are in position for Morant’s return and success.
Morant’s suspension resulted from two firearm-related incidents. The first occurred in March during an Instagram Live session in a Denver nightclub, resulting in an eight-game suspension. The second incident took place in May, involving Morant displaying a gun inside a vehicle, leading to a 25-game suspension that he has just finished now.
Since the second incident, Morant has committed to prioritizing self-improvement and focusing on his mental health to set a positive example for the future. The Murray State alumnus has addressed an apology to the NBA, the Grizzlies and several others.
“To Adam Silver, Zach Kleiman and Robert Pera - who gave me the opportunity to be a professional athlete and have supported me, I’m sorry for the harm I’ve done,” Morant said. “To the kids who look up to me, I’m sorry for failing you as a role model.”
Grizzlies’ fall without Morant
The Grizzlies were once considered one of the NBA’s strongest teams. Under the guidance of Coach Taylor Jenkins, the Grizzlies had consistent success in the regular season, with a record of 50-plus wins in past seasons. Memphis-based daily media The Commercial Appeal also highlighted the team’s prowess in rebounding, transition points and fast-break points.
However, the Grizzlies are currently struggling with a 6-15 record. Trailing behind the Pelicans, the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder, they rank 13th in the Western Conference. Furthermore, they recently faced a 103-127 defeat at the hands of Minnesota Timberwolves on December 9.
While injuries to key players like center Steven Adams and shooting guard Desmond Bane have taken a toll, the most noticeable gap is the absence of Morant. The team has been facing offensive challenges, ranking 27th in assists (23.9) and 19th in turnovers (14.3) per game.
Morant, who posted averages of 26.2 points and 8.1 assists last season, is expected to bring a dynamic play and intensity that will catalyze the Grizzlies to reverse their season. The point guard is set to return to the court on December 19 when Memphis visits the New Orleans Pelicans. His first home game of the season is scheduled for December 21 against the Indiana Pacers.