NBA fines Ja Morant $75,000 for inappropriate gun gesture

Ja Morant, the star guard of the Memphis Grizzlies, has been fined $75,000 by the NBA for making a gun-like gesture while celebrating made 3-pointers. The fine comes just a day after Morant once again mimicked aiming a gun during a game, despite previous warnings from the league.

The NBA has fined Ja Morant $75K for “twice making an inappropriate gesture on the playing court” pic.twitter.com/xXyWxeUlY1

— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 4, 2025

The NBA deemed the gesture “inappropriate” and emphasized that Morant had already been warned that such actions could be interpreted negatively. This marks the second instance within the week where Morant faced scrutiny from the league over the gesture, which has become controversial due to his past suspensions in 2023 related to incidents involving real firearms.

Adam Silver: “It’s ok Ja just don’t do it again.”

Ja Morant 9 hours later: pic.twitter.com/s2elYgmGUC

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The first warning came earlier this week after Morant and Golden State Warriors’ Buddy Hield exchanged the gesture during a game between the Grizzlies and Warriors. However, Morant repeated the gesture during Thursday’s game, ignoring the prior caution.

According to the NBA, the gesture occurred twice during the game, although it appeared to follow all three of Morant’s made 3-pointers. The third instance was not captured on the TNT broadcast.

This is not the first time Morant and his teammates have used the gesture this season. During Thursday night’s game against the Miami Heat, Morant celebrated a 3-pointer by turning to the Grizzlies’ bench with his left arm extended and his right hand forming the gun-like shape.

As one of the NBA’s most electrifying young talents, Morant’s actions continue to draw attention both on and off the court. The league’s firm stance on inappropriate gestures highlights its commitment to maintaining a positive image, especially given Morant’s prior suspensions.

The Grizzlies and Morant have yet to comment on the fine or the league’s statement.