Internet Erupts As Ja Morant Investigation Comes To A Close

Ja Morant dunks in a Memphis game.

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Ja Morant received good news on Wednesday regarding one of his recent off-court incidents. The NBA star has not been charged with a crime as police close their investigation into his latest incident involving a gun.

That situation saw Morant post an Instagram Live video that appeared to show him holding a firearm in a Colorado nightclub. Officials say that there is not enough evidence to move forward with the case.

Police released a statement this week, which was quickly posted to social media by NBA insider Shams Charania.

Regarding the incident, circulated on the internet, involving an NBA player.

On March 4, 2023, the Glendale Police Department was alerted by members of the media of video circulating on the internet that involved a prominent NBA player singing and holding what appeared to be a firearm by the butt end of a gun for several seconds.

Through investigation, the GPD was able to determine the incident took place at Shotgun Willie’s, located in the City of Glendale, during the club’s lawful operating hours. GPD was not able to determine that probable cause existed for the filing of any charges.

In this case, it should be noted that on the night in question the GPD did not receive any calls for service at the nightclub regarding a weapon of any type. Subsequently, no disturbances were reported, and no citizens or patrons of the club came forward to make a complaint.

The investigation also concluded that no one was threatened or menaced with the firearm and in fact no firearm was ever located. Although the video was concerning enough to prompt an investigation, there was not enough available evidence to charge anyone with a crime. Under our justice system all persons are presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

Uncertainty previously surrounded Morant’s future with the Grizzlies. While he’s already received a brief suspension from the team, some questioned whether that absence would extend further.

Head coach Taylor Jenkins previously stated that Morant’s time away from the team was considered indefinite with no set timetable for a return.

The nightclub incident was the latest in a string of off-court controversies for the star guard.

Ja Morant was also alleged to have been involved in an altercation with the Pacers team and staff in January. That situation also is reported to have involved a gun.

Reports also surfaced recently of a pair of offseason incidents, one accusing him of repeatedly punching a 17-year-old kid during a pickup basketball game and another of his threatening a mall security guard.

Many were quick to react to the initial video of Morant flashing the apparent firearm at the club, including Skip Bayless who questioned whether or not the NBA star was affiliated with gang members.

Now, fans are posting their responses to seeing him avoid criminal charges.

Some are skeptical of the decision.

Others, though, are happy to hear his name cleared.

Many expected this decision to be made.

Those close to the NBA star must be happy with the news.

The criminal investigation is done, but the league could still hand down its own punishment. We should soon learn when Ja Morant is able to return to the court.