NBA superstar Ja Morant has been the center of attention of the league over the past month. The Memphis Grizzlies player was involved in a few altercations and was also seen holding a gun in a video on social media. This caused a lot of stir in the sports world eventually leading Morant to be suspended indefinitely from playing.

The views on the NBA All-star player holding a gun have left the NBA world divided. While some think that this was a stupid thing to do from a guy who has everything to lose, others think it was a lapse in judgment that has not hurt anyone. Moreover, Chicago Bulls point guard Patrick Beverley thinks that music might have had something to do with him pulling up a gun online.

Patrick Beverley defends Ja Morant after his gun controversy

In an interview with Barstool Sports, Beverley revealed that music had a lot to do with Morant’s actions. According to him, the things depicted in music videos especially rap can be associated with the NBA star’s behavior. Although this was sad, it was the reality of the current world we live in.

“I think music has a lot to do with this now. You know, especially with this culture. Everyone holding a gun in the video is okay. You know, bling on your teeth is okay. Pants half down your ass, that’s okay. So, that’s like okay now” he said.

This statement might make sense on the surface. However, undisputed middleweight champion Claressa Shields called out Beverley for trying to justify Morant’s actions which were completely wrong for her.

Claressa Shields fires back at Patrick Beverley for defending Ja Morant

The undisputed champion responded to the Bulls player’s statement. She claimed that although music is influential in our lives, it should not control us. According to her, everybody is free to make their own choices, and even stated that she does not indulge in these activities while being an Olympic athlete and told Beverley to give Morant some good advice.

“Are y’all serious!? Yes, music is influential but we all have a choice! Do you see me Twerking, and being naked! I’m an athlete! Olympic athlete, world champ! We all have choices! Stop making excuses and tell him to make the right choice! Be a leader!” she wrote.

It seems that Shields understands perfectly well the responsibilities that come with being a professional athlete. Moreover, she was also brutally honest about the kind of advice young athletes should be getting from their mentors. Morant is 23 years old and has a long career ahead of him. However, he cannot let these controversies plague his career and prevent him from reaching his potential.

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What did you think about Shield’s response to Beverley? Let us know in the comments.