Watch reaction to Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant's first game back since NBA suspension
Ja Morant received a nearly 20-second standing ovation at FedExForum as he checked for his first game for the Memphis Grizzlies following his eight-game suspension from the NBA.
It was Morant's first appearance since March 3 as the two-time All-Star guard had been away from the team since he posted a video on Instagram Live briefly holding a gun. Morant spent time at a counseling facility in Florida prior to the NBA's punishment.
It was also Morant's first game as a reserve after starting the first 240 games of his four-year career.
A loud standing ovation for Ja Morant in his return to the floor. pic.twitter.com/0LrY2x5Afb
— Damichael Cole (@DamichaelC) March 23, 2023
A bird’s eye view of Ja Morant getting a standing ovation for his first game since March 3. pic.twitter.com/fLp8kKONRg
— Evan Barnes (@evan_b) March 23, 2023
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The applause continued when he brought the ball up court for the first time. It returned later when Morant made his first field goal, a tough layup through contact after being fouled by Houston Rockets' forward Tari Eason.
Grizzlies fans are fiercely loyal so it was no surprise that Morant was greeted warmly. He received a similar ovation Monday as he joined the team on the bench following the Grizzlies' decision to rest him as he ramped up following two weeks away.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Grizzlies star Ja Morant gets ovation in return from suspension
