Ja Morant has been suspended for 25 games by the NBA. While the punishment for flashing a gun on Instagram Live feels light to some, Morant will be sidelined until at least early December. However, the 25-game suspension is in line with both what pundits expected and how the NBA has treated suspensions in recent years. Miles Bridges was suspended for 30 games in April after pleading no contest to felony domestic violence charges.
In the wake of the suspension announcement, Morant released a statement. “I’m spending the offseason and my suspension continuing to work on my own mental health and decision making. I’m also going to be training so that I’m ready to go when I can be back on the court. I know my teammates are going to hold it down and I’m so sorry I won’t be out there with you at the beginning of the season. I hope you’ll give me the chance to prove to you over time I’m a better man than what I’ve been showing you," the statement read in part.
Stephen A. Doesn't Buy Morant Apology
"Nobody believes you," Stephen A. Smith began on First Take. "Nobody believes you. I don't say that flippantly, I'm a fan of Ja Morant. He's a superstar that I want this game to celebrate for years and years to come. Me, speaking for everybody here, I believe, not just here at ESPN but in the world of sports. Why would we root against you because it's better for all of us that you put your greatness on display with no troubles whatsoever because I belive this man is going to win a championship some day."
He continued. "The reason why you're not believed is because you already lied. [Morant's statement] sounds somewhat similar to what you already said on camera months ago with your first suspension. You have to understand that you're not believed, nobody believes you. You're at a show and prove point. We know what you can do on the basketball court. But now it's a show and prove point when it comes to your character. Because you not only looked Adam Silver in the face. You went on national TV, got interviewed by Jalen Rose, and you clearly lied. We hope you're telling the truth. But if you ask someone to bet money on the veracity and truthfulness of your word...ain't nobody betting money on that, bro."
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