Ja Morant Fined $25,000 for Bizarre Ball Toss in Loss

NEW YORK, March 2, 2025 — Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant was fined $25,000 by the NBA on Sunday for throwing the game ball into the stands during a game against the New York Knicks. The incident occurred at the end of the third quarter of the Grizzlies’ 114-113 loss on Friday night.

In what was described as a bewildering moment, Morant flung the basketball from the court into the seats just as the quarter ended. His actions led to a technical foul call, and the Knicks capitalized on the opportunity when OG Anunoby made the technical free throw, a point that proved crucial in the narrow defeat.

“I don’t know what he thought,” Morant said after the game. “If I wanted to throw the ball into the bleachers, I’d have thrown it in the nosebleeds.”

Morant was visibly frustrated during the game, particularly after Mikal Bridges blocked his shot in the final seconds of the third quarter. Despite his emotional outburst, he had a strong overall performance, finishing the game with 25 points and seven assists. However, the Grizzlies struggled with 18 turnovers, including four by Morant.

The close encounter saw the Knicks clinch victory with Anunoby’s three-pointer in the final moments. Morant’s layup attempt rolled off the rim before Santi Aldama‘s tip-in attempt failed, allowing New York to sweep the season series with the Grizzlies.

Morant’s fine is unlikely to significantly impact his finances, as he is currently in the second year of a five-year, $197 million contract. This season, he is averaging 20.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.4 assists across 37 games.

The Grizzlies are set to face the Atlanta Hawks on Monday, marking the fourth game in a five-game homestand. The team hopes to bounce back from the recent defeat as Morant’s play continues to be a focal point in their offensive strategy.