Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Ja Morant's Controversial Grenade Celebration Has Gilbert Arenas Link

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Apr 9, 2025 8:29 AM ET

Former NBA star Gilbert Arenas hilariously claimed that Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant's grenade celebration was his idea.

In a video clip from Monday's episode of his podcast, the former Washington Wizards guard jokingly suggested to Morant to mimic throwing a grenade instead of using gun gestures to celebrate on the court. Arenas' suggestion is part of the discussion about the All-Star guard's recent antics.

"Ja watches Gil's Arena means Ja to Lakers confirmed," Arenas wrote on X, along with the video.

The following day, the Grizzlies star did just that in a game against the Charlotte Hornets. After hitting a 3-pointer, Morant pretended to pull the pin of a grenade and tossed it to the crowd at Spectrum Center. He then covered his ears before running back to play defense.

Ja watches Gil's Arena means Ja to Lakers confirmed pic.twitter.com/kja0Lx8rZI
— Gilbert Arenas (@NoChillGilZero) April 9, 2025

On April 1, Ja Morant did a finger-gun gesture against the Golden State Warriors, prompting the league to issue a warning regarding his actions. However, in their next game against the Miami Heat, he performed it again.

As a result, the NBA fined the Grizzlies guard $75,000 for what the league called "inappropriate gestures."

The gap between Arenas' suggestion and the actual moment may not have been coincidental, if the former NBA star is to be believed. Nevertheless, a lot of eyes will be on Morant to see whether he can get away with this or not.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: