Ja Morant Makes Troubling Admission Following Grizzlies Suspension

Grizzlies coach challenges Ja Morant's leadership

Following Friday night's loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, Morant was reportedly challenged by his coach in a postgame confrontation that took place in front of the team.

Morant was held to a season-low eight points on 3-of-14 from the field with seven assists — and according to ESPN's Shams Charania, the former No. 2 pick "responded in a tone deemed inappropriate and dismissive."

When asked by reporters what the Grizzlies could do differently, Morant said: "According to [the coaching staff], probably don't play me, honestly. That's basically what the message was. It's cool."

And that frustration appeared to boil over in his first game back from the team-imposed ban when approached by the media last night — taking aim at the franchise's statement on his suspension.

Morant admits he lost his 'joy'

"Y'all asked that question of them, huh? ... So, y'all know the answer to that," Morant said Monday.

Ja was also asked if he has the same joy he usually plays the game of basketball and the PG's response was a stern: "No."

"Obviously, they can't go and tell y'all something I ain't said," Morant replied to another question. Adding: "If I didn't have a good relationship with [them], I wouldn't talk to them at all."

Obviously, the vibes aren't great in "Grind City" right now and the dynamic between Morant and the coaching staff doesn't seem to be improving for the time being.

Morant is in the third year of a five-year, $197.2 million contract. Since 2023, he has been suspended a total of 33 games and lost out on roughly $8 million in salary. He’s currently averaging 20.4 points per game through seven games this season.