NBA Fines Ja Morant $75K for Repeated Gun Gesture as Grizzlies Star Shrugs Off Backlash

The NBA has fined Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant $75,000 for making a gun gesture during a game against the Miami Heat, despite having previously been warned not to repeat the action. The incident occurred during the Grizzlies’ narrow 110-108 victory on Thursday.

The league cited Morant for “twice making an inappropriate gesture on the playing court,” referring to both this recent occurrence and a similar instance earlier in the week. NBA insiders Shams Charania and Tim MacMahon also reported that Golden State Warriors’ Buddy Hield was involved in a mutual exchange of gestures with Morant during a previous game, prompting warnings for both players.

NBA Strict on Morant’s Gesture, Despite Prior Warnings and Public Backlash Against Criticism

The NBA’s statement emphasized that Morant had already been warned about the potential negative interpretation of such gestures. Despite that, he chose to repeat the action, which led to the hefty fine. The league appears to be taking a strict stance on player conduct, especially given Morant’s past controversies.

While other players have made similar celebratory gestures without consequence, the NBA has only penalized Morant so far, likely due to his prior history of similar behavior.

Morant has acknowledged the backlash, stating that he is accustomed to criticism and has become somewhat indifferent to public perception. “I’m kind of used to it,” Morant said, expressing frustration over constantly being portrayed in a negative light. His dismissive attitude suggests a growing tension between the player and league officials, especially as his actions continue to draw disciplinary attention.

Morant Faces Discipline Again but Shines on Court with Key Performance Against Heat

Morant’s recent fine is not his first disciplinary issue with the league. He was suspended twice in 2023 for brandishing a firearm during Instagram live streams—once for eight games and later for 25 games. The second suspension led him to miss the start of the 2023–24 season. Following that, Morant issued a public apology to his fans and sponsors, vowing to be a better role model and representative of the brands he endorses.

Despite the off-court distractions, Morant remains a significant contributor on the court. He scored 30 points and hit a buzzer-beating fadeaway jumper to lift the Grizzlies over the Heat, ending a four-game losing streak. The win improved Memphis’ position in the Western Conference, where they currently hold the No. 6 seed. On the other side, Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo led the Heat with strong performances, although Miami’s six-game win streak came to an end. They now sit ninth in the Eastern Conference standings.