After learning of the 25-game suspension for appearing to show a gun for the second time, Ja Morant apologized and regretted what happened, knowing that he is working on his mental health and will do everything possible to be a better person.
Ja Morant has been involved in various problems in recent months, from worrying messages on his social networks to showing a gun on his Instagram, which led to a lot of criticism, an investigation and the NBA deciding to give him an exemplary sanction.
But he says he is remorseful and regrets having let many people down.
“I’ve had time to reflect and I realize how much I caused,” he said.
“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 am sorry for the damage I have done.
“To the kids who look up to me, I’m sorry for failing you as a role model. I promise I will be better.
“To all my sponsors, I’m going to be a better representation of our brands.
“And to all my fans, I will make it up to you, I promise.”
He acknowledged that he has been working on his mental health and will train very hard to be ready when he can return, confident that he wants to prove he is a good man.
While it’s another apology he’s offering, fans hope he means it now.
“I’m going through the offseason and my suspension continuing to work on my own mental health and decision making,” his statement continued.
“I’m also going to train to be ready when I can get back on the court.
“I know my teammates will tough it out and I’m really sorry I won’t be able to be with them at the start of the season.
“I hope they give me a chance to prove to you over time that I’m a better man than I’ve been showing.”