Nike Stands With Ja Morant Amid Controversy
Once again, the NBA is dealing with another controversy surrounding Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant. The 2x All-Star will miss two games while the league investigates an Instagram Live video circulating online.
In the video, Morant brandished what appeared to be a gun while at a nightclub early Saturday morning. Within a few hours, the Grizzlies issued a statement saying Morant "will be away from the team for at least the next two games."
Shams Charania of The Athletic reports that Morant's sneaker sponsor has weighed in on the scandal. Nike issued the following message, “We appreciate Ja’s accountability and that he is taking the time to get the help he needs. We support his prioritization of his well-being.”
This is terrible timing for Morant and Nike. Not only did Nike recently cut ties with Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving after he made controversial statements, but they are in the middle of launching Morant's signature sneaker line.
Nike Ja 1
View of Ja Morant's shoes.
© Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
The first time fans could purchase the Nike Ja 1 was at the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah. Nike designed an igloo popup shop where they sold Morant's first signature basketball shoe in very limited quantities.
Earlier this week, fans got another shot at purchasing Morant's shoes on the Nike SNKRS app. However, the shoe is officially scheduled to hit shelves for $110 in adult sizes in April.
Nike has touted Morant as the company's "first Gen Z athlete." Unfortunately, the 23-year-old has been embroiled in multiple controversies this season, including alleged threats of violence and other firearm issues.
Despite Morant's problems, Nike is standing behind one of the faces of their signature basketball roster. Stay locked into FanNation Kicks for more updates on this story and all your footwear news.
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