memphis grizzlies suspended star point guard ja morant The suspension was announced for one game Saturday due to conduct detrimental to the team.
The suspension comes as a result of Grizzlies first-year coach Tuomas Isalo challenging Morant’s leadership and effort in a postgame exchange following Friday night’s 117-112 loss. Los Angeles Lakers – to which Morant responded in an inappropriate and dismissive tone, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Morant was held to a season low of eight points on 3 of 14 from the field and seven assists and appeared nervous when asked what he saw in the game.
“According to [the coaching staff]”Honestly, maybe don’t mess with me,” Morant said. That was basically the message. It has increased.”
Morant also told reporters to “ask the coaching staff” when answering questions. His career-low average is 28.5 minutes in six games.
Isalo’s postgame news conference ended before he could be asked about Morant’s comments.
The Grizzlies next face the Raptors on Sunday in Toronto.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
