Desmond Bane Opens Up on Ja Morant’s Absence From the Grizzlies After Gun Video

• Desmond Bane has sent his message of support to his Memphis Grizzlies teammate Ja Morant as he steps away from the team to get help
• Morant appeared to be holding a gun in an Instagram Live video over the weekend
• The team announced he will be away from the team for at least two games

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has grabbed the headlines for the wrong reason again, this time for brandishing a firearm in a video online. After the news broke, the team announced that the 23-year-old will be away from the team for a minimum of two games.

His Grizzlies teammate Desmond Bane had his say on the situation, which prompted an NBA investigation.

The Grizzlies lost their first game without him, a 129-135 defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night. The Grizzlies were superb without Morant last season. However, this season, they have a 4-6 record without the All-Star guard.

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They have solidified the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference, for the most part, this season, and without Morant and other key players, teams will be closing in.

They face the Los Angeles Lakers next, looking to steady the ship. They have a 38-25 record, one game ahead of the third-placed Sacramento Kings. The Grizzlies also have a nightmare run of games in the next few weeks.

They face the Lakers, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks twice, Miami Heat and the Warriors again. Can they cope without Morant?

Bane on Morant gun video

The shooting guard has nothing but love for his teammate.

"We’re a big family," Bane said. "We’re wrapping our arms around him and showing our love to him. For sure. He’s a resilient guy, tough-minded guy. Whenever he’s ready to come back, we’ll welcome him with open arms," via SI.

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Nike issued a statement shortly after the video went viral, supporting Morant who unveiled his signature shoe line in December 2022.

Morant was also accused of punching a 17-year-old and threatening a mall security guard, per Bleacher Report.

Jenkins breaks silence on Morant

Sports Brief earlier reported on Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins weighing in on the Morant situation.

He said there's no timetable for the return of their best player but are supporting the youngster as he tries to get help but noted it will be a difficult process.

Jenkins added that they are holding Morant accountable for his actions and remains to be seen how long the guard will be out of action.