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The sanction comes after Morant met with NBA
Commissioner Adam Silver in New York to discuss the
23-year-old's conduct. The two-time All-Star previously said he
planned to take some "time away" and apologized for the
incident.
"Ja's conduct was irresponsible, reckless and potentially very
dangerous," Silver said in a statement announcing the
suspension.
"It also has serious consequences given his enormous following
and influence, particularly among young fans who look up to him.
"He has expressed sincere contrition and remorse for his
behavior. Ja has also made it clear to me that he has learned
from this incident and that he understands his obligations and
responsibility to the Memphis Grizzlies and the broader NBA
community extend well beyond his play on the court."
A league investigation of the March 4 incident did not conclude
that the gun belonged to Morant, was brought by him into the
nightclub or was displayed by him beyond a brief period.
The investigation also did not find that Morant possessed the
gun while traveling with the team or in any NBA facility.
Colorado authorities did not find sufficient cause to charge
Morant with a crime.
Morant is averaging 27.1 points, 8.2 assists and 6.0 rebounds in
53 games this season for the Grizzlies, who currently sit second
in the Western Conference.
(Reporting by Rory Carroll in Los Angeles; Editing by Toby
Davis)
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