What did Jalen Rose have to say about the Ja Morant gun incident?
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has been on the receiving end of tremendous backlash after some rash decisions as of late. With the panel of "NBA Countdown" discussing Morant's situation, former NBA Jalen Rose shared his take on the matter.
Ja Morant finds himself facing a lot of media scrutiny. Known as a rather brash and loud personality, Morant has developed a type of reputation around the league. One that many believe doesn't befit him in the slightest.
A situation recently came to light that suggested that Morant supposedly hit a minor several times and threatened him with a gun after a pickup game last year.
In light of these charges, Morant was already facing a tough time with the media and the NBA. However, the Grizzlies guard only made matters worse for himself when he flashed a gun on his IG live.
The already turbulent situation has turned into a debacle. Morant's questionable decisions also left everyone perplexed as to what he was trying to achieve. In this regard, Jalen Rose shared his thoughts on the matter on "NBA Countdown".
While highlighting that he spoke from personal experience, he said:
"I am Ja Morant. You guys have had the chance to see me grow up from public consumption since 1991. I've been involved in drug raids. I've survived assassination attempts. I've been that undisciplined young person that was trying to figure out how to be famous, how to be successful and how to change the dynamics of my family."
Rose then spoke about the responsibilities that come with being drafted into the NBA. While emphasizing Morant’s role as a leader, he said:
"When you're the leader, it's on you. Because you end up searching that lifestyle. You end up wanting to be down. What I've learned is that people come into your life for four reasons: to add, subtract, multiply or divide. You have to choose wisely."
The analyst continued to highlight the similarities between his past and Morant's present. He then added some advice he'd received as a youngster about guns:
"When you start waving it, that can get you killed."
Jalen Rose shared a personal message on the Ja Morant situation: https://t.co/cKvQX3Xcys
Jalen Rose placed a lot of emphasis on the fact that Morant made the decision to wave the gun on his IG live himself, something Stephen A. Smith also mentioned. The impact such a decision could have on his young career could be drastic.
As the situation continues to unfold, Morant finds himself in murky waters. With rising concerns about his decision, the Memphis Grizzlies have suspended him from activity for two games at the moment.
Read: "Dying to ruin his career" - Ja Morant allegedly flashing gun on IG live sparks strong reactions from fans, labeling him as a "tremendous idiot"
Ja Morant may face more severe charges
The Memphis Grizzlies may have suspended Ja Morant for two games, however, this number isn't a solid stance. Depending upon the situation, Morant may stand to face some more action moving forward.
Nike also shared a statement regarding Morant's current situation. Following Morant's statement where he mentioned that he would reflect on his actions, Nike tweeted saying:
"We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being.”
Nike statement on Ja Morant: “We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being.”
Nike and Morant agreed upon a contract this season itself. Considering the stance Nike took with Kyrie Irving, Ja finds himself on thin ice with the sporting apparel brand.