The latest figures to voice their thoughts on Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant’s ban are former NBA players Kevin Garnett and Tony Allen.

The 23-year-old Morant was given a 25-game suspension earlier this month following two instances in which he appeared to brandish a gun in public. He was seen carrying what looked to be a firearm in a car with a friend after first filming himself gripping a pistol in a Denver strip club. 

Later, Morant uploaded footage in which he claimed that the supposed gun in the second video was only a lighter. 

Garnett stated on KG Certified, “You don’t get to pick and choose when you wanna be a professional, young fella.” 

You must improve. To perform better, you must present yourself in a better light. 

Garnett’s Boston Celtics teammate Allen also added his voice, stating, “He needs to surround himself with the right people.”

“I know it sounds corny, but above all, you need some cats around who will tell you when you’re wrong and when you’re bogus.”

The NBA Players Association, who issued a statement expressing their strong disagreement with the punishment, said that it was “excessive and inappropriate for a number of reasons,” but they did not rule out taking legal action to challenge the punitive suspension.

Commissioner Adam Silver, however, denounced Morant’s activities in a statement, claiming that they would influence young people to act similarly.

It is also worrisome because other young people would model their behavior after Ja’s.

We think a 25-game suspension is reasonable in these circumstances and makes it clear that using a gun recklessly or irresponsibly will not be permitted.

For Ja, basketball needs to wait for the moment. He will have to create and complete a program with the league that specifically tackles the reasons that caused him to repeat this damaging behavior before he can play again.

‘I’ve had time to ponder and I know how much hurt I’ve caused,’ said Morant in a statement of his own. I want to express my regret to the Memphis community, the Grizzlies, the NBA, and my teammates.

I apologize for the hurt I’ve caused to Adam Silver, Zach Kleiman, and Robert Pera—who backed me and given me the chance to become a professional athlete.

I apologize for not living up to your expectations as a role model, kids. I swear I’m going to improve. I promise to be a better ambassador for all of my sponsors’ brands.