SHOCKING TURN OF EVENTS 🛑 JAREN JACKSON JR. SUSPENDED AFTER HEATED ALTERCATION IN GRIZZLIES WIN — WILL MISS TOMORROW’S GAME VS HORNETS!
MEMPHIS — In a stunning development, Memphis Grizzlies star forward Jaren Jackson Jr. has been handed a one-game suspension after a wild altercation during last night’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Late in the 4th quarter, Jackson collided hard with Pelicans big man Jonas Valančiūnas while fighting for a rebound. What looked like a physical play quickly escalated when Jackson confronted Valančiūnas — exchanging words before shoving him near the baseline.
Officials quickly separated both players, but the NBA reviewed the footage overnight and ruled Jackson’s actions warranted a one-game suspension for unsportsmanlike conduct.
This means Jackson will miss tomorrow’s critical matchup against the Charlotte Hornets — a major blow to the Grizzlies as they fight for playoff positioning.
Head Coach Taylor Jenkins addressed the media:
“Jaren plays with passion — but we’ve talked as a team about controlling emotions in big moments. We respect the league’s decision and will move forward.”
Jackson, a Defensive Player of the Year and All-Star, apologized briefly on social media:
“Heat of the moment. Gotta be better. I’ll be back stronger.”
The Grizzlies will now look to Desmond Bane and Marcus Smart to step up in Jackson’s absence.
