Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant delivered a strikingly terse and pointed postgame interview following the team’s 117–112 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.
After a rough shooting night, just 3-for-14 from the field and 0-for-6 from three-point range, finishing with only eight points, Morant faced the media visibly frustrated. When asked about the team’s collapse after leading by 14 at halftime, Morant repeatedly deflected questions with the phrase:
“Go ask the coaching staff.”
Pressed further on what could have been done differently, Morant didn’t hold back:
“According to them, probably don’t play me.”
Ja Morant when asked questions from the media:
“Go ask the coaching staff.”
And then asked what could have been done differently, other than asking the coaching staff:
“According to them, probably don’t play me.”
(🎥 @50NuancesDeNBA)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) November 1, 2025
The comment has fueled speculation about internal tensions between Morant and the Grizzlies’ coaching staff.
The Grizzlies appeared in control early, but the Lakers, led by Luka Dončić’s 44-point explosion, stormed back in the second half to steal the win. Morant’s struggles were emblematic of Memphis’s broader issues, as the team dropped to 3–3 on the season.
Morant’s postgame remarks weren’t just about his shooting woes, they hinted at deeper frustrations. According to reports, the locker room atmosphere was tense, and Morant alluded to a “whole spill” from the coaching staff that preceded his media appearance.
While Morant has had a history of fiery competitiveness, this level of public criticism toward team leadership is rare and potentially disruptive. The Grizzlies have invested heavily in Morant as the face of their franchise. But with mounting pressure, inconsistent performances, and now public tension, the organization may need to address internal dynamics before they spiral.
