NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to Meet with Suspended Memphis Grizzlies Star Ja Morant

LAS VEGAS — NBA commissioner Adam Silver has announced that he will be meeting with suspended Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant this week as the date for Morant’s potential return draws near.

Monitoring the Situation

“I have been closely monitoring this situation,” Silver stated, referring to Morant’s suspension for brandishing a gun in public on multiple occasions over the past year. The suspension, which was for a minimum of 25 games, was imposed by Silver himself.

Silver expressed his satisfaction with Morant’s compliance with the program that was laid out for him over the past few weeks. “To the best of my knowledge, he’s complied with everything he’s been asked to do,” Silver said during a press conference on Saturday.

Possible Return Date

Morant, a two-time All-Star, is eligible to make his comeback on December 19th when the Grizzlies face off against the Pelicans in New Orleans. The Grizzlies have struggled in Morant’s absence, currently holding a record of 6-15 and sitting in 13th place in the Western Conference.

Past Incidents

This is not the first time Morant has faced suspension for his actions involving firearms. Last season, he was suspended for eight games after wielding a firearm in a nightclub in Denver. Additionally, video clips surfaced last summer showing Morant holding a gun while dancing in a vehicle with friends.

Reviewing the Program

Silver plans to have a direct conversation with Morant before his return to ensure that the necessary conditions are in place for his success going forward. “We’ll review the program and just make sure the conditions are in place for him to be successful going forward,” Silver stated.

Adam Silver Addresses Other Topics

Silver also took the opportunity to address other topics during the press conference. He defended two controversial elements of the In-Season Tournament that he created and clarified a statement made by one of his deputies regarding load management.

Regarding load management, Silver stated, “There is no data that it does work.” He explained that while fatigue can impact performance, the question is whether load management leads to more injuries.

Changes in the Players Association

Silver expressed surprise at the recent changes in the NBA players’ union, with executive director Tamika Tremaglio leaving her role and Andre Iguodala taking her place. He stated that he had no prior knowledge of any issues and emphasized his commitment to working with whoever is presented to him.

The transition to Iguodala as the interim executive director has been smooth, according to Silver. He assured that there have been no disruptions in the day-to-day relationship between the league and the union.

Overall, Silver remains focused on addressing various matters within the NBA and ensuring the success of players both on and off the court.

(Photo: Kirby Lee / USA Today)