Morant says the gun showed off on Instagram is not his, wants to be a role model.
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has explained holding the gun in a viral video at the start of the month.
The 23-year-old point guard Morant showed off a gun on his official Instagram account after the Grizzlies lost to the Denver Nuggets.
Morant was suspended following the gun incident as he went to counseling in Florida.
Morant explains gun Incident
Morant met up with NBA commissioner Adam Silver in New York to discuss the impact of his actions.
The NBA decided to suspend Morant for eight games backdating some of the games he has already missed.
The statement by Silver said, “Ja’s conduct was irresponsible, reckless, and potentially very dangerous.
“It also has serious consequences given his enormous following and influence, particularly among young fans who look up to him.
"He has expressed sincere contrition and remorse for his behavior.
Morant sat down with former Indiana Pacers guard and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose to break down the gun incident.
The two-time All-Star He explained that the Gun does not belong to him and he intends to be a better role model.
He said, "The gun wasn't mine. It's not who I am, I don't condone any type of violence, but I take full responsibility for my actions.
"I made a bad mistake and I can see the image that I painted over myself with my recent mistakes, but in the future, I'm going to show everybody who Ja really is, what I'm about and change this narrative."
Morant is now expected to miss the next two games for the Grizzlies and is eligible to return against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday, March 20, 2023.
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