Nike releases statement supporting Ja Morant's personal development

One of Ja Morant’s biggest sponsors weighed in on his off-court controversy on Saturday.

Following the Memphis Grizzlies' decision to suspend Morant for at least the next two games and his own released statement taking accountability for recent questionable off-court behavior (and announcing a leave of absence from the team), Nike put out a release backing its young star.

“We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being,” said the shoe giant.

Morant drew negative attention Saturday after putting out an ill-advised Instagram Live where he flashed an alleged gun, shared from a possible strip club after the Grizzlies’ loss to the Nuggets on Friday night. Morant’s latest gun incident is part of an ongoing pattern of negative behavior.

He was sued in September 2022 for allegedly punching a teenager with a gun during a pickup basketball game at his home. Morant was said to have possessed a gun in the waistband of his pants during that incident. A few days before that alleged misstep, Morant was allegedly threatened a mall security guard. And if that wasn't enough, members of Morant’s entourage were accused of threatening members of the Pacers’ traveling party following a January game.

All of this behavior reflects poorly on Morant and those associated with him, including a major brand like Nike, but it is noteworthy that at least for now, the company has stuck with its client.