The young point guard vowed to change the narrative against him.
Memphis Grizzlies franchise player Ja Morant hasn’t suited up since he was seen on Instagram Live brandishing a handgun while partying in a club earlier this month. While on a self-imposed exile, Morant has also entered a counseling program to help him deal with his personal issues.
In an interview with ESPN’s Jalen Rose, the 23-year-old high-flyer cleared the air on what really happened during the streaming of the infamous video. First order of business was to establish who the owner is of the pistol he was holding.
“The gun wasn’t mine,” Morant calmly said.
“It’s not who I am. I don’t condone it or any type of violence. But I take full responsibility for my actions,” he continued.
NBA fans are used to the two-time All-Star sounding brash and defiant when talking to the media. But during the SportsCenter exclusive, Morant sounded remorseful and, believe it or not, humble. As he continued to display his other side, the crowd-pleasing guard also made a vow to change the negative imagery that’s being attached to his reputation.
“I made a bad mistake. And I can see the image that I painted over myself with my recent mistakes. But in the future, I’m going to show who Ja really is, what I’m about, and change this narrative,” Morant told the 13-year NBA veteran turned sports analyst.
The Grizzlies are currently tied with the Sacramento Kings for second place in the Western Conference standings with a 41-27 slate. A refreshed and recharged superstar returning for the final stretch of the season will boost Memphis’ chances of making a deep playoff run.
But the key to it all is for Ja to keep his word.