Ja Morant is easily one of the most electrifying players in the NBA—but man, this night spiraled out of control fast. What started as a routine end-of-quarter shot somehow escalated into full-blown controversy, leaving fans stunned and Morant staring down league punishment.

So, what exactly happened? A technical foul that literally decided the game? How did something so harmless turn into this? And more importantly—why is Morant now caught up in yet another situation that could derail his entire season? Let’s break it all down.

As the third-quarter buzzer sounded, Ja Morant launched a one-handed full-court shot—you know, the kind players take all the time for fun. It wasn’t a frustration throw, it wasn’t directed at anyone, just a heat-of-the-moment attempt. But instead of ignoring it, like they usually do, the refs immediately hit him with a technical foul. A tech for that? Seriously?

And here’s the kicker—that free throw ended up deciding the game. The Knicks got a free point to start the fourth quarter, OG Anunoby knocked it down, and New York won by one. While Ja Morant has to pay $25,000 for a subjective foul.

Fans were livid, but lead referee Bill Kennedy stood by the call. “Morant was assessed a technical foul for throwing the ball the length of the floor,” Kennedy said. Okay, but is that actually against the rules? Well, when asked, Kennedy basically admitted that it wasn’t—as long as the shot is considered a legitimate attempt.

So wait—this was subjective? The ref just decided that Morant’s shot wasn’t legitimate and handed New York a free shoot because of it? Yeah, that’s exactly what happened, and it’s why this whole situation blew up instantly.

Memphis actually had a shot to pull it out late, with Morant getting an and-one that felt like the dagger. Only to shatter that hope after Anunoby drilled a clutch three, putting the Knicks right back in front.

Morant still had one last chance to steal the win at the buzzer, but his layup just rolled off the rim, sealing a brutal loss for the Grizzlies.

Morant’s Injury Status Looms Large for Memphis

As if the ridiculous tech foul wasn’t enough, Ja Morant now has another problem—his health. After the game against the Knicks, he started dealing with lingering shoulder pain, forcing him to sit out against the Spurs. Memphis fought hard, but in the end, they fell short, losing 130-128 to a San Antonio squad missing Victor Wembanyama.

Now, with the Hawks coming to town, Morant’s status is still up in the air. The Grizzlies listed him as questionable with right shoulder soreness, and you can bet fans are nervous about whether he’ll play.

And guess what? The Hawks are dealing with their own injury concerns—Trae Young is managing an Achilles issue. But unlike Morant, he’s been playing through it, so he’ll probably be out there when Atlanta faces Memphis.

Right now, the Grizzlies are 38-22, sitting fourth in the Western Conference, and with playoff seeding getting tighter, they desperately need their guy. But between bad calls, fines, and now a nagging injury, things are getting rough for Memphis.

Morant’s $25,000 fine just adds another layer of frustration to a brutal stretch. The tech cost them a crucial game, and now his health is another issue hanging over their season.

With Atlanta up next, the biggest question is simple—can Morant shake off the shoulder pain and get back on the court?