Ja Morant, the standout guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, has been fined $75,000 by the NBA for repeatedly making finger-gun gestures during games, despite prior warnings from the league.This disciplinary action underscores the NBA’s commitment to maintaining decorum and addressing behaviors that may be perceived negatively.
The incidents in question occurred during two recent games. On April 1, 2025, during a matchup against the Golden State Warriors, Morant directed a finger-gun gesture toward the opposing bench. The league issued a warning, emphasizing that such gestures could be interpreted unfavorably. However, Morant repeated the gesture twice on April 3, during a game against the Miami Heat, notably after making three-point shots.In response, the NBA imposed the $75,000 fine, citing the player’s disregard for the initial warning.
This is not the first time Morant has faced league discipline related to gun-related conduct. In March 2023, he was suspended for eight games without pay after displaying a firearm in an Instagram Live video. Later that year, he received a 25-game suspension at the start of the 2023–24 season following a similar incident.These prior incidents have heightened scrutiny of Morant’s actions both on and off the court.
Despite the controversy, Morant’s on-court performance remains impressive. In the game against the Miami Heat, he delivered a game-winning buzzer-beater, leading the Grizzlies to a 110-108 victory.Addressing the media afterward, Morant acknowledged the public criticism but appeared unfazed, stating he is accustomed to the scrutiny.
The NBA’s decision to fine Morant reflects its ongoing efforts to uphold professional standards and address behaviors that may cast the league in a negative light. As the Grizzlies prepare for their upcoming game against the Detroit Pistons, all eyes will be on Morant to see how he responds to this latest disciplinary measure.
