Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies have had a very up-and-down NBA regular season. However, it seems as though those rough times have followed them into the playoffs. Memphis has the unfortunate luck of attempting to take down this insane Oklahoma City Thunder team. However, a loss in game one was not the most shocking aspect of this young series. A recent video of Morant smiling on the bench while down about 50 has sent some fans into a rage.
Ja Morant has been one the the NBA’s most promising young stars, talent-wise that is. Ja has incredible athletic ability, along with the drive to win as many games as possible. However, reports from Athlon Sports confirm that after an embarrassing blowout loss to OKC in game one of the 2025 NBA playoffs, some fans are questioning his seriousness as a basketball player. While on the bench during that game, Ja can be seen smiling and laughing like he didn’t have a care in the world. While some may believe this is his ability to stay calm under pressure, many seem to take it as an insult to the team and the game. One social media user even said, “That’s a bad look.”
Fans React to Ja Morant’s Bench Activity Amid NBA Playoff Chaos
However, that would not be the only comment regarding the Morant situation. Many more would chime in with their own opinions.
“He is so unserious,” said one.
“I guess guys can’t have fun anymore,” wrote another.
Finally, another stated, “His whole demeanor that game was off. This is not a good sign for the Grizzlies’ supposed number one guy.”
Most fans seem a little upset that Morant seemed not to care about the score. However, there is also a vast number of fans who seem to understand the clip is taken out of context.
Ja Morant had a pretty serious-sounding message during his post-game interview following the loss. The young NBA star stated that his team will never play that badly again. He continued by stating that if they win game two, then the series goes back to being tied. While that may be true, it will seemingly take a team effort to beat this beast of an OKC team.
Anything is possible in the fantastic world of sports. However, things are really not looking too good for Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies. Morant will have to prove that he can take this team to the next level, or it may be time for some tough talks. However, for now, there is still plenty of basketball to be played. Here is hoping the Grizzlies can at least make it a series!
Emma Taylor 
