MIAMI — It was a climactic moment for Ja Morant, one that he relished. As the final buzzer sounded, Morant sank a game-winning jump shot, securing a win for the Memphis Grizzlies over the Miami Heat. He then reveled in the hush that fell over the court, fully embracing his role as the antagonist.
Morant has grown accustomed to being cast in this role. “I’ve felt like the villain for the last two years,” he stated. “It’s not just directed at this crowd.”
The duel against Miami provided yet another stage for Morant to showcase his prowess. On Thursday night, his performance culminated in a pivotal victory for Memphis, snapping the team’s four-game losing streak with a 30-point contribution. But the narrative extended beyond this achievement.
Once again, Morant’s connection with firearms, both genuine and mimicked, has become a subject of discussion. In 2023, he was twice suspended by the NBA—once for eight games and later for 25 games—after incidents involving firearms shared on social media, including one in a Denver nightclub and another in a car. Recently, he faced criticism for gesturing a shooting motion towards the Golden State Warriors’ bench, though he avoided disciplinary action as Buddy Hield of the Warriors reciprocated the gesture. During the game in Miami, he repeated the act, simulating shooting at his own bench after hitting a three-pointer, which drew media attention.
“I’m fully aware,” Morant acknowledged regarding the scrutiny. When asked if the negative remarks affected him, he expressed indifference. “I’m kind of used to it,” Morant explained. “For the past two years, I’ve been the villain. Any minor incident, if there’s something critical to be said, it’s widespread. So, yeah. It doesn’t bother me anymore.”
The Grizzlies, however, had nothing but praise for Morant’s performance on Thursday. Despite a challenging first half with only three points on 1-for-7 shooting, he came alive in the second half, scoring 27 of his total 30 points. The game-winning shot was a well-calculated move during the 13.8-second possession, one that Morant envisioned from the start.
“It’s inspiring to watch,” remarked Grizzlies interim coach Tuomas Iisalo. Having secured his first victory in his fourth game since assuming the role, Iisalo commented, “It boosts the confidence of not just myself as a coach, but the entire team, knowing we have a player like that.”
With this win, Memphis climbed out of the play-in tournament zone, claiming the No. 6 spot in the Western Conference playoffs—a position ensuring automatic entry into the postseason. Morant celebrated the win with predictable fervor, having succeeded in a challenging away setting.
“I think anyone would enjoy that kind of moment,” said Grizzlies center Jaren Jackson Jr. “But for him specifically, it’s evident he thrives in such situations. I mean, I personally wouldn’t boo him. I just wouldn’t.”