Home/NBA

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The controversy around Ja Morant has been a major point of discussion in the past few weeks. When the storm around the Grizzlies star eventually started to clear, images of Morant at a strip club were leaked, sending major shockwaves throughout the hoops community. According to various reports, the Memphis Grizzlies star spent over $50,000 at the strip club. The leaked images from the strip club revealed a money-filled floor. In addition, the eight-game suspension from the league cost him $668,659. However, this may just be the tip of the iceberg.

Morant has already served his eight-game suspension and was eligible for the game against Dallas Mavericks. But he did not return as he is currently undergoing a return-to-play conditioning program ?However, there is optimism that the reigning MIP could return against the Houston Rockets.

Ja Morant could lose $40 million

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Ja Morant is in the final year of his rookie contract and his rookie max extension will kick in next year. He signed a five-year $194.3 million extension with the Memphis Grizzlies prior to the 2022-23 season. This extension was expected to increase up to $233 million. According to a report from Sporting News, Morant will make $233 million if he wins the MVP award or the Defensive Player of the Year award or if he earns an All-NBA selection this season.

The 23-year-old is not in the running for either the MVP award or the DPOY award this season. Amongst the three, making one of the three All-NBA teams looks likely for the high-flying guard and could earn him another $40 million. Notably, he made the All-NBA second team last season as well.

READ MORE?Stop Making Excuses and Tell Him [To] Make the Right Choice?: Patrick Beverley Justifying Ja Morant?s Gun Video Draws Fiery Response From Boxing World Champion

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

However, the two-time NBA All-Star faces a lot of competition from other guards for the All-NBA teams. Furthermore, his actions could have tarnished his chances. As per the report, the self-inflicted damage, which made him unavailable for the team, could affect his candidacy. If Morant does not make any of the All-NBA teams, he will miss out on a whopping $40 million.

Morant returns to the FedEx Forum

Ja Morant was anticipated to be back against the Dallas Mavericks after serving his eight-game suspension. However, he did not make the team and could be seen on the bench cheering his teammates at the FedEx Forum.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

WATCH THIS STORY -?Highest scoring games by a player in Grizzlies history after Ja Morant?s epic 49-point performance

The point guard received a warm reception from the Memphis Grizzlies fans as well. Head coach Taylor Jenkins is hopeful Morant could be back on the court against the Houston Rockets.