Memphis Grizzlies star point guard Ja Morant has received a ton of criticism after posting a viral video on Instagram while displaying a gun at a nightclub. Despite this, it looks like Nike, a huge sponsor for Morant is going to stand by him. This has drawn a reaction from Chicago Cubs star pitcher Marcus Stroman.
Nike released a statement on Morant’s situation, saying that they appreciate his “accountability” and that they are supporting him as he gets the help he needs.
“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.”
Nike statement on Ja Morant: “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.”
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 5, 2023
Stroman noticed this statement and replied on social media Sunday, comparing it to Irving’s situation earlier this year after posting a link to a movie with anti-Semitic rhetoric on social media. The pitcher went as far as to say that Nike is “trash” for sticking by Morant but cutting ties with Irving.
“Kyrie posted a link with zero comments and they ended his contract,” tweeted Stroman. “I always knew Nike was trash. Thankful to be free from any of these companies!”
Kyrie posted a link with zero comments and they ended his contract. I always knew Nike was trash. Thankful to be free from any of these companies! 🗣️ @_shugo https://t.co/1wUPKgctRT
— Marcus Stroman (@STR0) March 5, 2023
Nike ended their partnership with Irving back in December after he refused to back take down the post of the anti-Semitic film.
It isn’t all that shocking considering Stroman has consistently defended Irving on social media while he was receiving criticism for his beliefs.
In case you were wondering, Marcus Stroman *still* doesn't think Kyrie Irving did anything wrong pic.twitter.com/poDS15JtVo
— #WriteInNimmo (@WriteInNimmo) January 17, 2023
Stroman has already started to receive criticism for defending Irving, which certainly isn’t what the Cubs were hoping for as they prepare for the upcoming 2023 MLB season.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.