The NBA has found itself in the middle of yet another controversy, with Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant and Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield at the center of the storm. The league is investigating both players following a heated exchange in the final moments of the Warriors’ 134-125 victory over the Grizzlies on Tuesday night.
The Incident That Set Social Media Ablaze
With just under 21 seconds left on the clock, tensions ran high. Morant, visibly frustrated with the impending loss, turned toward the Warriors’ bench and made what appeared to be a finger-gun gesture. The move didn’t go unnoticed—Warriors players, including Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, immediately flagged it to officials.
However, Morant wasn’t the only one making headlines. Earlier in the game, Hield had made a similar gesture toward Morant. The NBA’s probe, first reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, aims to determine whether either player violated league conduct policies. Both players were assessed technical fouls on the spot, but the league’s review could lead to further penalties.
A History That Matters
For Morant, this situation carries extra weight. He has already been suspended twice for gun-related incidents. In March 2023, he served an eight-game suspension after flashing a firearm at a Denver nightclub during an Instagram Live stream. Later that year, he received a 25-game suspension for displaying another firearm in a social media post. Given this history, any discipline from the NBA could be severe.
Hield, meanwhile, does not have the same level of controversy in his past, but he has faced disciplinary action before. During his time with the Indiana Pacers, he was fined $25,000 for making an “obscene gesture” during a game. While his latest actions might not carry the same weight as Morant’s, he could still be looking at a fine or suspension.
Ja’s Response? Typical Ja
While fans and analysts debated the severity of the incident, Morant took to social media with a cryptic yet classic response: “ja this .. ja that .. 😂.” Whether he was brushing off the controversy or subtly acknowledging it, one thing is clear—the NBA isn’t laughing.
What Comes Next?
The league’s investigation is expected to wrap up soon, with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver holding the authority to issue fines or suspensions. The league constitution allows for disciplinary action against any conduct deemed “prejudicial to the best interests of the Association.” Given Morant’s past, Memphis fans are bracing for the worst.
For now, the Grizzlies sit at the No. 6 seed in the Western Conference, desperately trying to hold their ground in the playoff race. Another suspension for Morant could be a devastating blow. Meanwhile, the Warriors not only walked away with the win but also got a front-row seat to yet another chapter in Morant’s ongoing saga.
