Taylor Jenkins, the Memphis Grizzlies’ head coach, reportedly issued a strong message to star point player Ja Morant, addressing concerns about his off-court behavior and its impact on the club. This development comes amid growing scrutiny of Morant’s off-court behavior.
Ja Morant, a two-time NBA All-Star and the 2020 Rookie of the Year, has been embroiled in several scandals in recent years. In March 2023, he was suspended for eight games after displaying a handgun on Instagram Live in a Colorado nightclub. Morant openly apologized and temporarily left the squad to seek help with stress and overall well-being.
Despite these measures, identical concerns persisted. Morant was suspended from all team activities in May 2023 when yet another video surfaced showing him carrying a handgun. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed amazement at the incident, which resulted in a 25-game suspension for Morant, based on his participation in a league-sponsored program addressing his conduct.
These off-court occurrences have had a significant impact on Morant’s career. In January 2025, he became ineligible for NBA honors after missing his 18th game of the season, which fell short of the league’s award consideration standard. This absence was due to foot discomfort, but it raised questions about his availability and dedication.
The Grizzlies, who now lead the Western Conference with a 36-18 record, are allegedly assessing their future with Morant. Speculation is that if the team underperforms in the playoffs, they may explore big roster changes, including selling Morant to build around other key players such as Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane.
Coach Jenkins’ recent conversation with Morant demonstrates the organization’s dedication to upholding a culture of professionalism and responsibility. While the specifics of their talk remain confidential, the message is clear: off-court behavior must be consistent with the team’s beliefs and expectations.
Morant’s issue exemplifies the greater challenges that professional athletes face in balancing personal conduct and public scrutiny. As a famous NBA personality, his actions serve as a reminder of the obligations that come with success, as well as the possible consequences of mistakes. The Grizzlies’ management and fans alike hope Morant will use this opportunity to reflect and make necessary changes, ensuring that his future contributions to the team are beneficial both on and off the court.