MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant eight games without pay after determining his possession of a firearm at a club in suburban Denver earlier this month it was “conduct detrimental to the league.”
Morant will miss his sixth game on Wednesday when the Grizzlies play in Miami. He will miss the next two games and will be eligible to return Monday when Memphis plays Dallas.
Games already missed will count toward the suspension, and Morant will lose about $669,000 in salary.
«Ja’s conduct was irresponsible, reckless and potentially very dangerous,» NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. «He also has serious consequences given his enormous following and influence, particularly among the young fans who look up to him.»
Silver met with Morant in New York on Wednesday shortly before announcing the league’s decision.