Fans worry about NBA star after scary video emerges, ‘Risking his career…’

 

 

 

Fans Worry About Ja Morant After Scary Video Emerges, ‘Risking His Career…’

MEMPHIS / FAN REACTIONS, July 30, 2025 — NBA fans are expressing deep concern after a harrowing dunk‑attempt video starring Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant circulated online. The clip captured a high-risk offseason dunk during his Nike “Make Them Watch” tour in China—bringing renewed scrutiny of his athletic playing style, injury history, and choices that may jeopardize his career.

A stunt gone wrong

Morant, known for his explosive dunks and gravity‑defying athleticism, attempted a stunt by jumping over a person (reported to be a family member) during a dunk contest. As he rose, his foot slipped, and he collided awkwardly with the person beneath him. The moment looked particularly dangerous: fans on X (formerly Twitter) wrote that it “could’ve been a torn ACL” and feared for the worst. Fortunately, Morant emerged unhurt, but not without concern from viewers.

Emotional reactions flood social media

Immediately following the video, fans expressed frustration and fear:

• “Man that could have been a torn ACL.”

• “Bro nearly folded like a deck chair.”

• “The whole franchise just flashed its eyes rn.”

• “Risking his career in front of empty seats… Ja really dumb.”

Many implored him to stop performing high-risk dunk stunts, especially with the NBA season still months away.

A pattern: Morant claimed caution, but keeps going

This incident sharply contrasts with a prior commitment Morant made to reduce dunking. In December 2024, he announced he would “pick and choose” dunk opportunities to preserve his health, citing persistent injuries and a focus on long‑term availability.

That earlier vow followed a season-ending shoulder surgery and repeated misses due to hip and knee injuries. Fans felt betrayed seeing him pull off such a risky stunt during the off‑season.

Why fans are worried — again

The Memphis Grizzlies’ hopes rest heavily on Morant returning to peak performance in the 2025–26 season. The Western Conference has grown more competitive—with teams like the Nuggets, Warriors, Lakers, and Rockets all strengthening their rosters. As one report noted, even teams reshuffling at the bottom (like Portland and San Antonio) are increasing challenges in the West The Sport Review.

With Morant’s explosive athletic package a key ingredient for the team’s success, any serious injury would deliver a blow not only to Memphis but potentially to the broader league’s entertainment value.

A career of highs—and controversy

Morant’s trajectory has been defined by dazzling highs and off‑court setbacks. The two‑time NBA All‑Star emerged as a highlight reel hero in 2021 and 2022. But since then:

• Gun‑related controversies in 2023: Morant flashed a firearm on two separate Instagram live broadcasts, sparking league investigations. He was suspended for 25 games after a second incident and was away from the team for extended periods. The second suspension was contingent on him completing a league‑sanctioned conduct program.

• Legal actions: A civil lawsuit stemming from a 2022 pickup game fight was dismissed by a Tennessee judge in April 2025, who ruled Morant acted in self‑defense. The ruling also referenced local “stand your ground” statutes.

• On‑court gestures: In April 2025, Morant received league warnings—and a $75,000 fine—for making gun‑aiming gestures at opposing players after initial warnings from NBA officials.

Despite these incidents, the video of the dunk slip raises a fresh wave of concern: this time about his physical well‑being and judgment during stunts.

Personal priorities vs. public expectations

Earlier this summer, Morant wowed fans in China by performing a reverse dunk during Nike’s “Make Them Watch” tour. The clip reignited hopes he might return to the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, despite his earlier stance against participating dominated by injury concerns.

Fans’ confusion is understandable. On one hand, Morant avoided dunk contests and reportedly avoided dunks altogether to stay healthy; on the other, he’s executing daring dunks overseas. The disconnect is fueling renewed frustration and calls for consistency.

What’s at stake?

• For Morant: He’s put his body on the line once again, stirring questions about his decision-making and long-term health.

• For the Grizzlies: Losing Morant to injury could derail their ambitions in an increasingly competitive Western Conference.

• For the league: Morant remains one of the NBA’s most electrifying talents. A serious setback would not only affect Memphis but diminish some of the excitement around NBA star power.

Looking ahead

As fans clamor for the next Workout Wednesday highlight or viral dunk, Morant’s own words continue to echo: “Two points is two points.” His stated shift away from high-risk dunks was rooted in his conviction to stay available for Memphis—and safeguarding that future might require him to sit out high-risk exhibitions.

If he resumes competitive play in the NBA, how he balances excitement and caution will strongly influence perceptions of his career moving forward. Whether the latest stunt is a one-off risk or a sign of old habits resuming remains a crucial question.

Summary

As Morant prepares for the upcoming NBA season, the question remains: can he reignite his offensive spark without risking the durability that he’s vowed to protect? For now, fans, analysts, and the Grizzlies organization are watching carefully.