Well dang, during the NBA draft on Thursday Memphis Grizzlies general manager spoke Zach Kleiman spoke with The Associated Press and made it clear that he doesn’t give a damn about Ja Morant’s recent apologies.
“At this point, it doesn’t matter until he follows through,” Kleiman said. “I couldn’t care less about words. Ja has to prove it. Kleiman explained to the AP that he believes the NBA’s 25-game suspension “was appropriate” for Morant. Kleiman went on to say how Morant’s gun incidents were a part of a pattern of “problematic behavior.”
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“There’s no room for steps back,” Kleiman said. “Ja has the opportunity to come back from this. And everyone wants him to be successful.” As we previously reported, the news broke on June 16th that Ja Morant will be suspended for 25 games next season without pay.
Morant also issued a statement that Friday morning following the NBA’s decision. “I’ve had time to reflect and I realize how much hurt I’ve caused,” Morant said in the statement. “I want to apologize to the NBA, the Grizzlies, my teammates and the city of Memphis. To Adam Silver, Zach Kleiman and Robert Pera – who gave me the opportunity to be a professional athlete and have supported me, I’m sorry for the harm I’ve done.” He said.
He added, “to the kids who look up to me, I’m sorry for failing you as a role model. I promise I’m going to be better. To all my sponsors, I’m going to be a better representation of our brands. And to all my fans, I’m going to make it up to you, I promise.”
Following the announcement. More shocking news hit the internet that Nike will stand beside him and his actions.
“We are pleased that Ja is taking accountability and prioritizing his well-being. We will continue to support him on and off the court.” Nike said in a statement.