Looks like Nike won’t be cutting ties with Ja Morant following his latest gun flashing incident on Instagram.
As we previously reported, the news broke this morning that Ja Morant will be suspended for 25 games next season without pay. Following the news Nike released a statement and said they will continue to stand with Ja Morant. “We are pleased that Ja is taking accountability and prioritizing his well-being. We will continue to support him on and off the court.”
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Morant also issued a statement on 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.”
Now ESPN host, Stephen A. Smith was not feeling Morant’s apology the legendary commentator was on first take and responded to his statement saying: “Nobody believes you,” Stephen A. Smith began on First Take. “Nobody believes you. I don’t say that flippantly, I’m a fan of Ja Morant. He’s a superstar that I want this game to celebrate for years and years to come. Me, speaking for everybody here, I believe, not just here at ESPN but in the world of sports. Why would we root against you because it’s better for all of us that you put your greatness on display with no troubles whatsoever because I belive this man is going to win a championship some day.”
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He continued. “The reason why you’re not believed is because you already lied. [Morant’s statement] sounds somewhat similar to what you already said on camera months ago with your first suspension. You have to understand that you’re not believed, nobody believes you. You’re at a show and prove point. We know what you can do on the basketball court. But now it’s a show and prove point when it comes to your character. Because you not only looked Adam Silver in the face. You went on national TV, got interviewed by Jalen Rose, and you clearly lied. We hope you’re telling the truth. But if you ask someone to bet money on the veracity and truthfulness of your word…ain’t nobody betting money on that, bro.”