The term “shooter” for a basketball player is usually used to show a player who excels from beyond the three point line, or even in the midrange. However, for basketball star Ja Morant, that phrase takes a more literal meaning. Over the course of his career, Morant has dealt with jokes and constant scrutiny from the media over his previous mistakes, relating to his immaturity and lack of discipline with guns. 

Temetrius Jamel “Ja” Morant is an NBA superstar who rose to stardom in 2021 when he took the leap from “promising rookie” to “MVP candidate” and won the Most Improved Player award. Morant has all the makings to be the next face of the NBA, except for one major issue: He can’t keep himself out of trouble. Morant has been involved in countless controversies that have severely damaged his reputation and brand. The most infamous example of his immaturity was when he was on Instagram Live on March 4, 2023, when he brandished a gun to his viewers. Immediately he faced consequences from the NBA and was temporarily suspended with an additional requirement of counseling. It seemed as though he had just made a silly mistake, and he would mature from this experience. 

However, 2 months later on May 14, he did it again. The media and the NBA were both in shock and once again, Morant faced consequences.This time, it was clear that he needed to be taught a lesson, so the NBA suspended him for even longer. In the media nowadays, controversies pursue celebrities to no end, and Morant was no exception. His behavior warranted a 25 game suspension without pay, resulting in Morant losing seven million dollars in potential earnings. Additionally, the Nike store took his signature shoe off their website right after the incident. The biggest impact however, was the effect it had on the overall perspective of Morant as the future face of the NBA. Countless NBA fans believe he is an immature and violent danger who doesn’t deserve to be a star in the league. Eventually, he made it back to playing in the NBA after his suspension ended. Morant seemingly recognized what he did was a terrible mistake, and is ready to move forward with his career.

As much as he states he has matured, actions speak louder than words, and many agree that Morant must prove his maturity in order to regain the respect and trust of players, the league, and the overall NBA community. This whole situation has left a devastating mark on Morant’s legacy, tainting his early years with unnecessary controversy. His behavior, and the impact it had on his career is a great example of how crucial discipline is in maintaining the upward trajectory of an individual’s career and future.