Ja Morant expresses "hate" over Ziaire Williams’ departure from Grizzlies in emotional message after Nets player's big game
Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant shared an emotional message for former teammate Ziaire Williams on Wednesday. Morant's reaction came after Williams' standout performance in the Brooklyn Nets’ 119-106 victory over the Grizzlies at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee.
Williams, who spent three seasons with the Grizzlies before being traded to the Nets in July, made a significant impact in his first game against his former team, playing a key role in Brooklyn’s road win.
After the game, Morant posted a heartfelt message for Williams on Instagram. The Grizzlies star shared a photo with Williams in his Instagram story, expressing his “hate” over not having his former teammate on the Grizzlies roster anymore. Despite this, Morant showed his support, acknowledging how well Williams seems to be adjusting to his new team.
"hate it's this way. but love dis shii for you la brudda love gang," Morant wrote.
Williams was outstanding for the Nets on both ends of the floor, providing a major boost off the bench. His energy and scoring helped propel the Eastern Conference team to their second win of the season.
Williams finished with 17 points on 6 of 10 shooting, including 1 of 4 from beyond the arc, in 24 minutes. The 2021 No. 10 pick also contributed one rebound, three assists, four steals and a block, ending the game with a +11 plus/minus rating.
Ordinary game for Ja Morant
Ja Morant returned to action after missing the Memphis Grizzlies' game against the Chicago Bulls on Monday due to right thigh soreness. Although initially questionable for the matchup against the Brooklyn Nets, Morant was cleared to play just hours before tip-off.
The two-time NBA All-Star struggled to find his rhythm and his subdued performance contributed to the Grizzlies' loss. The former Murray State standout finished with 14 points on 5 of 16 shooting, including 1 of 6 from beyond the arc. He added eight rebounds and 11 assists in 29:08 minutes.