Grizzlies' Ja Morant Reports Lost Joy Playing Post-Suspension

Ja Morant returned to the Memphis Grizzlies lineup after a one-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team but revealed he is no longer playing basketball with the same joy he once had. Despite scoring 18-20 points and dishing out 10 assists in his comeback game, Morant's shooting was poor, and the Grizzlies lost to the Detroit Pistons, dropping to a 3-5 record. The suspension followed a public conflict with coach Tuomas Iisalo, who questioned Morant's leadership and effort, leading to tension within the team. Morant denied that he has severed ties with the franchise but remained noncommittal about what could restore his passion for the game, responding with "We'll see" when asked about regaining his joy. This situation highlights ongoing struggles for the Grizzlies early in the season, with injuries and internal discord threatening their success. The relationship between Morant and the organization appears strained, raising questions about the future direction of the team and its star player.