In the old-school era of the NBA, most players preferred to let their work and accolades speak for themselves. Only a select few leaned into trash talk to make noise. The modern-day players follow a different approach.
They are quick to make bold statements and exhibit an antagonistic demeanor, regardless of whether they can substantiate them, and this leads them to forget where to draw the line.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFollowing a recent incident in which Ja Morant was seen in a heated verbal exchange with four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson, David West publicly urged the 26-year-old to demonstrate maturity and acknowledge the veterans who have shaped today's culture.
Ja needs to take things seriously
Over the years, Morant has never shied away from theatrics, whether it's his bold claim of being "fine in the West" following a couple of promising regular-season runs, getting in Anthony Davis' face, or repeatedly trash-talking the Golden State Warriors. So, when Morant, despite not even participating in the game, chose to call out Thompson from the sidelines, many were puzzled at the intensity of his reaction.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementEven after tensions cooled on the floor, Morant continued to show agitation, calling out Thompson for unnecessary reasons when another teammate of his was sitting in front of the media personnel.
Reflecting on this pattern, West stated in a recent interview that Morant should display stronger composure and acknowledge the stature of veterans, such as Klay, who have earned respect through shaping the modern game and their accomplishments.
"It's all good when you're playing, but Ja wasn't even in a jersey," West said. "So, you're on the sidelines, stay on the sidelines. Obviously, pointing at someone's face, just deal with whatever's said and whatever comes with that, right? A lot of line that you can't cross. It's not even in the heat of the game, right? So, there'sthere has to be some maturity there. Sam, you know about this, when you're aging out, young guys try to take a shot at you."
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementRelated: Mychal Thompson shares how he would've reacted to Ja Morant's taunts in Klay Thompson's shoes
Morant's trajectory is doomed
At one point, the narrative surrounding Ja was rooted in his electrifying athleticism, fearless scoring, and ability to consistently shift momentum in favor of his team single-handedly. Put simply, his ascension and emergence on the big stage as a "superstar" made the Memphis Grizzlies a rising threat in the Western Conference.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHowever, repeated suspensions, injuries and off-court distractions have altered his perception. As a result, he is viewed as a player whose persona and theatrics outweigh his on-court production.
So, unless the two-time All-Star and former Most Improved Player refocuses on basketball, avoids unnecessary confrontations and recommits to elevating his team, the growing sentiment is unavoidable. West's admission reveals how former players are tired of his theatrics and want him to reach his full potential by committing to the craft and focusing on his work ethic.
Who knows, this shift in narrative could either bring a huge change to Ja or be the beginning of its end as a franchise cornerstone.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementRelated: MVP Blueprint vs. Chaos: Tyrese Maxey's LeBron-fueled leap exposes Ja Morant's immaturity and collapse
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Nov 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
AdvertisementAdvertisement
