A prominent NBA player has weighed in on the controversial actions of Ja Morant, the star player for the Memphis Grizzlies. Point guard Patrick Beverley has attributed the rapper’s behavior to what he calls “this culture.”
Following an incident where Morant seemed to display a firearm during an Instagram Live session, he entered a counseling program and was subsequently suspended indefinitely by the Grizzlies. Despite leaving the program, Morant intends to focus on personal growth.
Beverley has shared his perspective on why he believes Morant’s actions are connected to the realm of rap music. During a recent installment of the Pat Bev podcast, Chicago Bulls’ guard Patrick Beverley candidly shared his perspective on Morant’s contentious behavior.
He asserted that the current climate of rap music and hip-hop plays a significant role in Morant’s behavior. Beverley also emphasized the influence that these genres wield over today’s younger generation.
In a nutshell, rap emerged as an art form in the Bronx in 1971. It encompasses lyrical content accompanied by an instrumental backdrop known as a “beat.”
Over time, rap has evolved, incorporating elements like street graffiti, beatboxing, breakdancing, and more. It’s a cultural phenomenon with both admirers and critics, and it has provided a platform for many young individuals to find their voices.
Morant’s Recent Incidents
Ja Morant’s recent actions have brought him under public scrutiny, which is unsurprising given his stature as one of the NBA’s most high-profile stars. His recent behavior has sparked controversy, particularly considering his endorsements with major brands like Nike and Powerade.
At 23 years old, Morant is a two-time All-Star and a standout player for the Memphis Grizzlies. However, his reputation has taken a hit due to a series of concerning incidents that he needs to address.
These issues involve instances of threatening and aggressive behavior off the basketball court. Some of these incidents, including allegedly assaulting a teenager and intimidating a mall security guard, were reported last summer.
Morant’s Suspension
On a recent Tuesday, the NBA suspended Ja Morant from playing for eight games. This disciplinary action came after Morant posted a video on Instagram, depicting him holding a gun at a nightclub. The suspension was announced shortly after Morant’s meeting with NBA commissioner Adam Silver and other executives in New York to discuss his behavior.
ESPN’s Jalen Rose reported that the 23-year-old guard has acknowledged the irresponsibility, recklessness, and potential danger of his actions. Morant has pledged to make better decisions moving forward and recognizes the stakes for himself and those around him.
Morant has garnered attention for a series of off-court incidents, including a confrontation with a teenage boy during a pickup basketball game, threats toward a mall security guard, and pointing a laser pointer at members of the Indiana Pacers after a game. These events prompted an NBA investigation that ultimately did not result in criminal charges against Morant.
Anticipating Morant’s Return
When a young basketball player encounters challenges, the media often amplifies the situation. This holds particularly true for Ja Morant, who has recently found himself in the midst of discussions for less favorable reasons.
The Memphis Grizzlies’ standout player has been temporarily benched from the team following the release of a video showing him holding what seemed to be a firearm at a Denver nightclub. He expressed regret for the incident and took a leave of absence from the team, although the Grizzlies haven’t announced a timeline for his return to the court.
In addition to the gun-related incident, Morant has faced allegations over the past month. These include incidents involving Indiana Pacers staffers, a physical altercation with a teenager, and accusations of threatening a security guard the previous summer.