Grizzlies’ Ja Morant fined $25K by NBA for throwing ball into stands

The Memphis Grizzlies’ star guard was fined $25,000 by the NBA for throwing a game ball into the spectator stands, the league announced on Sunday.

Morant’s errant throw occurred in the third quarter of a 114-113 loss to the New York Knicks on Friday. As the frame came to an end, the 25-year-old corralled a rebound and flung the ball the other way in what appeared to be a half-hearted shot attempt.

The ball sailed past the basket and into the stands, which then prompted a technical foul call from the officials. Morant appeared perplexed following the whistle.

While no small amount, the fine likely won’t impact the two-time All-Star all that much, considering he’s in the second season of a five-year, $197 million deal. He’s making an average annual salary of $39.4 million until the end of the 2027-28 campaign.

Morant is averaging 20.9 points, 4.1 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.2 steals through 37 games this season. He leads Memphis for scoring and assists while ranking second in steals.

The Grizzlies return to action on Monday as they host the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth game of a five-game homestand.