- Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant said he is “not completely better” after spending more than a week receiving mental health and life counselling in Florida.
Morant said it was his decision to seek counselling while being suspended by the NBA for brandishing a firearm in public while intoxicated.
In explaining the ongoing counselling he’s receiving, Morant, 23, a two-time All-Star and the face of the Memphis Grizzlies franchise, said it was to “be a better me, learning how to be there for myself and realigning myself with my personal life.”
“Just being more responsible, smarter, that’s pretty much it for me,” Morant said following his first practice with the Grizzlies since he got separated from the team on March 4 for posting video of himself with a gun at a Denver-area nightclub.
“Obviously, you know, I made mistakes in the past that caused a lot of negative attention, not only to me, but my family as well, my team, the organization, and I’m completely sorry for that,” Morant said. “So, you know, my job now is, like I said, being more responsible, smarter, and don’t cause any (more off-court controversy) any more.”
Morant said it was still to be determined if he would play on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets. He also said he was uncomfortable sitting on the bench with the Grizzlies on Monday, and was also uncomfortable standing before reporters. However, coach Taylor Jenkins said the organization expects Morant to play.
Jenkins also said it was possible Morant would come off the bench, depending on how the team wants to manage a minutes restriction.
Morant is averaging 27.1 points to go along with career highs in assists (8.2) and rebounds (6)
