Ja Morant Jan 14, 2023; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) slam dunks the ball in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

After the NBA and the Memphis Grizzlies suspended star Ja Morant for eight games after several incidents. many around the league have offered their own opinion on the situation. Many called on the NBA and/or the team to punish Morant and they did.

But former NBA star Matt Barnes said that if players don’t want to be in the same position as Morant, they need to be careful and be smart.

“Don’t tell on yourself and watch out for cameras,” Barnes said to TMZ Sports. “The second you step out of your house you’re being recorded these days. So just stay cognizant and be aware of your surroundings.”

Barnes also said not to give up on Morant just yet and says he is one of his favorite players.

“That happens when you’re young and the world [is] at the palm of your hand. I love Ja. I love what he brings to the table. I just want to send him love. Let him know we love him. We miss him and we need him back.”

Ja Morant is an up-and-coming star in this league and these latest incidents have not only damaged his image but the league’s as well. The NBA will soon need a new star to carry them once older NBA superstars like LeBron James and Steph Curry eventually retire. Morant may need to slow it down in order to get back in that spot if it’s even attainable.

{TMZ Sports}

About Stacey Mickles

Stacey is a 1995 graduate of the University of Alabama who has previously worked for other publications such as Sportskeeda and Saturday Down South.