The Dallas Mavericks have been chasing a late comeback when Klay Thompson pulled up from the brand with seconds remaining.
The long-range try bounced out, and Memphis rapidly capitalized, stretching the lead and shutting out a 102–96 win.
The loss added to Dallas’ tough begin, however the closing rating wasn’t the one factor folks have been speaking about afterward.
Ja Morant, who has been unavailable as a result of a calf damage, discovered his means into the highlight from the sideline. As gamers made their means off the courtroom, Morant stood up and exchanged phrases with Thompson. A courtside video captured the second, and social media dissected it instantly.
Fans believed Morant directed an insult towards Thompson, and the clip circulated earlier than the post-game interviews had even begun.
Morant didn’t quiet issues down, both. While guard Cam Spencer was chatting with reporters, Morant stepped into the body and mentioned, “Tell ’em who the best shooter in the house was. It wasn’t bro from Golden State.”
The remark added gasoline to the confrontation and got here at a time when Thompson’s general taking pictures numbers have been underneath extra scrutiny than standard, per Yahoo Sports.
Thompson, nonetheless, delivered one in all his higher performances of the season within the Memphis matchup. He dropped 22 factors and hit six threes, exhibiting flashes of the rhythm that outlined his earlier profession. Still, the veteran is navigating a troublesome begin statistically, and Morant clearly noticed a gap to take a shot.
Asked to make clear what Morant mentioned, Thompson didn’t hassle recounting the specifics. Instead, he targeted on Morant’s conduct.
“He’s a funny guy with no accountability,” Thompson mentioned throughout his session with reporters. “Just running his mouth. He’s been running his mouth for a long time, and it’s funny to run your mouth when you’re on the bench. That’s kind of been the story of his career so far—just leaving us wanting more.”
Thompson additionally spoke in regards to the broader image, noting that Morant’s expertise is simple however typically overshadowed.
“We all want to see him out there doing what he does best,” he mentioned. “But he’s been letting a lot of other stuff get in the way. When you’re a star, there’s a responsibility that comes with it.”