As the NBA season commences, Ja Morant’s presence will be notably absent from the court due to a 25-game suspension. However, the league has taken measures to ensure that he remains engaged and doesn’t fade into obscurity during his suspension.

 

Morant’s suspension, which extends into December, comes in response to his actions involving the display of firearms on social media and other specific incidents. The league’s decision was officially announced following the conclusion of the NBA Finals. Despite the suspension, Ja Morant continues to participate in practice sessions with the Memphis Grizzlies. Furthermore, he will be allowed to travel with the team during his suspension rather than facing complete isolation until his return.

 

NBA Executive Vice President Joe Dumars expressed his perspective during a conference call with select media, emphasizing the importance of providing support to the 24-year-old player as he navigates the challenges of a young career in the league.

 

Dumars remarked, “Here’s a 24-year-old kid, he’s figuring it out as he goes as a young man in the league. Incredible talent. And early on in his career, a lot has come his way. I personally think the worst thing you can do is completely ostracize this kid from everything with his team. So the 25 games are 25 games, but I think for this 24-year-old kid to continue to grow, he needs to continue to practice every day with his team and be around his team and team meetings and all of that stuff I think really helps a young guy’s growth. He needs to be in that environment.”

 

Morant’s presence in practice and within the team’s environment serves as a testament to the NBA’s commitment to supporting his growth and development, even amid the suspension.