The Golden State Warriors‘ 134-125 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on April 1 should have been a celebration of Stephen Curry’s historic night. Instead, the closing moments of the game took an unexpected turn when Ja Morant found himself in yet another controversy—one that fans and analysts believe could have serious consequences.
With the game winding down, Morant and Buddy Hield were both hit with technical fouls after exchanging “gun-toting” hand gestures. While the interaction appeared playful between the two, the NBA has a strict stance against anything resembling gun-related behavior, especially considering Morant’s history.
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And it’s not just Morant. The NBA has been cracking down on gestures like this for years. In 2017, Josh Jackson was fined $35,000 for a similar trigger-pulling motion toward a fan. Paul Pierce and DeShawn Stevenson were both fined $25,000 in 2008 for “menacing gestures.” Even more recently, Nikola Vucevic, Lance Stephenson, and Anthony Edwards have all faced disciplinary action for unsportsmanlike conduct tied to hand signals or taunts. The precedent is there—gestures matter, and the NBA isn’t afraid to take action.
With that in mind, it’s easy to see why fans and analysts are calling for Morant to face another suspension.
Fan reactions erupt over Morant’s actions
NBA Twitter wasted no time in weighing in, with many fans mocking the Grizzlies’ reputation for talking tough but failing to back it up when it matters.
“Grizzlies are the Arsenal of the NBA, all talk but when it comes to winning something 🦗🦗🦗.” The comparison to Arsenal FC is telling. Both teams generate excitement, boast talented rosters, and consistently compete at a high level. Yet, when it comes to winning the biggest prizes, they always seem to fall short. The Grizzlies have made multiple playoff appearances but have never won an NBA championship, much like Arsenal’s struggles to reclaim a Premier League title since their historic 2003-04 season. The comparison underscores a growing perception that Memphis talks big but doesn’t deliver when it matters most.
Other fans were far less forgiving toward Morant, calling his decision reckless and a sign that he hasn’t learned from past mistakes. “Morant may be getting a serious fine if not a suspension from the NBA. Idk how he hasn’t learned yet that playing with guns will get you in trouble. Went from future face of the league to a fake thug with a questionable future.” This reaction isn’t without merit. Morant’s past incidents involving firearms have severely damaged his reputation. In March 2023, he was caught flashing a gun on Instagram Live, which led to an eight-game suspension. Just two months later, he did it again—this time earning a 25-game suspension. The NBA made it clear that repeated offenses wouldn’t be tolerated, and many fans now view him as a player who has squandered his once-promising future.
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via Imago
Jan 15, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts after scoring a three point basket during the second half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
However, not everyone saw an issue. Many pointed out that Buddy Hield was actually the one who started it, with Morant simply reacting. “Buddy Hield did it and Ja did the same thing back. Stop trying to create stuff.” The NBA’s stance on inappropriate gestures has always been strict, regardless of who initiates them. In 2017, Josh Jackson was heavily fined for a similar hand motion toward a fan, even though he later claimed it wasn’t intended as a gun gesture. The league evaluates incidents based on perception and impact, not just intent.
Another fan doubled down on the idea that this was being overblown: “Buddy Hield did it first and Ja did it back. Anything to force-feed narratives.” Hield and Morant may have a friendly relationship off the court, which could explain why the exchange seemed lighthearted. However, the NBA enforces its rules strictly, regardless of personal dynamics. Even if players mean no harm, their actions are scrutinized in the broader context of the league’s professional image.
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Now, all eyes are on the NBA. Will the league hand down another suspension, or will they view this as nothing more than a harmless exchange? Given the precedent set by previous fines and punishments for similar gestures, Morant could very well be looking at another penalty.
One thing is certain—Ja Morant’s name is once again dominating headlines for all the wrong reasons. With the Grizzlies trying to salvage their season, the last thing they need is their franchise star creating more distractions.
