Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant received a significant penalty following the defeat against the New York Knicks.
The Memphis Grizzlies have dropped their previous two matches by a total of three points, falling to game-winners in both games. Although this two-game span has been exasperating for the Grizzlies, the situation has somehow worsened.
The NBA has imposed a $25,000 penalty on Grizzlies star point guard Ja Morant for tossing a ball into the stands during their defeat against the New York Knicks on Friday.
“Guard Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has been fined $25,000 for tossing the game ball into the stands, as announced today by Joe Dumars, Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations.” The NBA reported that the incident took place at the end of the third quarter during Memphis’ 114-113 defeat to the New York Knicks at FedExForum on February 28.
Morant concluded Friday’s defeat with 25 points and seven assists, shooting 9-22 from the field and 0-6 from three-point range. The Grizzlies’ superstar is experiencing a below-average season in terms of stats but has consistently risen to the occasion when it counts.
Morant was fined for attempting a full-court shot after the buzzer that sailed into the stands behind the basket, which makes the fine rather debatable.
Morant is currently averaging 20.9 points, 7.4 assists, and 1.2 steals per game this season; however, he still faces penalties from the NBA, stemming from a previous 25-game suspension related to off-the-court matters.