Team USA is prepared to leave its mark on the basketball world as the eagerly awaited 2023 FIBA World Cup gets underway. The team played five practice games and is now all set to take on their group C opponent. New Zealand presents the opening challenge in Group C, setting the stage for an intriguing opening match that promises more than simply a one-sided contest.

Meanwhile, with the game underway, a 6?10 All-Star tumbled on the court, giving fans and Grizzlies an injury scare. This injury could prove to be fatal for the Grizzlies, who suspended Ja Morant.

A 6?10 All-Star tumbles on court

The Memphis Grizzlies‘ dominant player on the floor, Jaren Jackson Jr., has won the highly desired honor of being named the best player at Team USA’s training camp. Jackson has unquestionably established himself as a cornerstone on Steve Kerr’s Team USA lineup with his stellar record. This also includes winning the prestigious 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. The announcement was after an unofficial vote by The Athletic, in which Jackson received resounding approval from his fellow national team members.

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Following a recent practice session, teammate Jalen Brunson praised the newly named All-Star in particular. He said, ?Jaren, particularly (Saturday), his energy and the way he went to the glass and went to the foul line every other possession.?He was just really a force (in the Saturday scrimmage against the U.S. Select Team).?

Meanwhile, as fans and viewers alike watched the debut game in anticipation, a tense moment sent shockwaves throughout the arena. Jackson Jr. slipped awkwardly on the court during the game, immediately raising concerns about injuries.

NBA reporter for the New York Daily News wrote, “Awkward landing here by Jaren Jackson Jr. but he bounces back up. If I fell like this right now, I?d be out for a year.”

The incident occurred when Jackon Jr., who is renowned for his outstanding defensive abilities, made a desperate attempt to block a shot from Yanni Wetzell. The two players collided beneath the hoop, causing them to fall dramatically to the ground. Fortunately, Jackon Jr. walked off the fall, much to the relief of the crowd.

If Jackon Jr. had been seriously injured, things would have gone South for the Grizzles, who already suspended Ja Morant for his actions.

Ja Morant’s father comments on his suspension

Ja Morant received his second suspension of the year in June. The 2x NBA All-Star was caught on Instagram Live with what appeared to be a gun and was later given a 25-game suspension. This is Morant’s second suspension as in March, they also suspended him for eight games when a video surfaced that appeared to show him holding a gun in a Denver bar.

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Following his second suspension, Morant released a statement of apology. He wrote, “To the kids who look up to me, I’m sorry for failing you as a role model,” Morant said in a statement following the second suspension. “I promise I’m going to be better. To all of my sponsors, I’m going to be a better representation of our brands. And to all of my fans, I’m going to make it up to you, I promise.”

However, Ja Morant’s father, Tee Morant, recently commented on his son’s suspension. Tee Morant clarified at the Up Next Elite Camp in New Orleans, ?My son didn?t get in trouble cause of people around him. He got in trouble because of his decisions.?

Meanwhile, Morant’s teammate continues to battle it out on the national scene. What are your thoughts on Jackson Jr.? Let us know in the comments below!

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