MEMPHIS - Grizzlies star point guard Ja Morant has been suspended for "at least two games" after filming himself waving a gun in a viral Instagram post.
Morant, 23, frequently uses the Instagram Live feature to chat with fans and give them insight on his off-court lifestyle.
In his most recent live broadcast, though, Morant can be seen partying and waving a gun in what appears to be a nightclub.
The Instagram Live broadcast began hours after the Grizzlies' 113-97 road loss to the Denver Nuggets Friday night. Morant had 27 points and 10 assists in the effort.
Instagram Live videos delete when they conclude, but, like social media activity done by celebrities, it was screen recorded and recirculated on the internet, going viral almost instantly.
We are aware of a social media post involving Ja Morant and are investigating,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement.
Morant will be suspended from the Grizzlies for "at least the next two games" and will miss a Southern California road trip where the Grizzlies will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday before meeting the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday.
His flagrant social media display comes just days after a report by Molly Hensley-Clancy of the Washington Post that Morant was accused in a police report of repeatedly punching a 17-year-old at a pickup basketball game last summer and then displaying a gun at the teenager.
According to TMZ Sports, the 17-year-old filed a lawsuit against Morant in September.
Morant has been one of the league's top young players through his four seasons with the Grizzlies, earning two All-Star selections, a Rookie of the Year award, and last year's Most Improved Player award.
Given his immense talent, it would be a shame to see him waste it by spending his time in troublesome places.
Morant has since deleted his Twitter and Instagram accounts and issued an apology to the team.
I take full responsibility for my actions last night,” Morant said in a statement. “I’m sorry to my family, teammates, coaches, fans, partners, the city of Memphis and the entire Grizzlies organization for letting you down.”
Hopefully, the talented Nike athlete is able to correct his behavior sooner than later.
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