Days before his anticipated return to the basketball court, Ja Morant found himself in another court on Monday. Morant took the stand in a civil case against him, alleging that he assaulted a teenager during a pickup basketball game in July. Morant argued that he acted in self-defense when he punched Joshua Holloway.
Testifying, Morant explained that a fight broke out after Holloway threw a basketball at his face during a routine ball check, a pre-game ritual to ensure readiness. Feeling disrespected, Morant recounted that his friend, Davonte Pack, threw a punch at Holloway, and Pack subsequently pulled Morant away from the altercation.
Morant, who is serving a 25-game suspension for off-court behavior, including a video incident involving a gun, is set to return to the court on December 19. During Monday's hearing, Morant discussed the events leading up to the altercation at his father's home in Eads.
His attorney, Keenan Carter, explored Morant's childhood, highlighting the family's tradition of basketball pickup sessions since 2011. Morant stated that the teen hit him with the ball, and as Holloway approached, Morant, fearing another attack, threw the first punch in self-defense.
Morant's father, Tee, also testified on Monday, with his continuation expected on Tuesday. The civil case revolves around the alleged assault during the pickup game.
Source: youtube.com
