Ja Morant didn’t have to suit up and play to create an impact against the Dallas Mavericks. Sidelined with a calf strain, the Memphis Grizzlies star was present to cheer his team on as a spectator.
Morant went viral with his on-court interaction with Klay Thompson; the two were separated by others as they exchanged words after the Mavericks’ 102-96 loss on Saturday. And while the younger star called out the veteran shooter postgame, Thompson didn’t hold back on sharing his views about the 26-year-old guard.
Mavericks’ Klay Thompson Claps Back at Grizzlies Star Ja Morant After Viral Sidelines Interaction
After the game, Morant went to the media to take a direct dig at Thompson. He appeared during teammate Cam Spencer’s interview, saying, “Tell ’em who the best shooter in the house was. It wasn’t bro from Golden State.”
This was after their face-off on the sidelines, with Morant visibly provoking a frustrated Thompson. Videos showed Thompson grew irritated at Morant pointing a finger at his face while he walked on the court postgame.
Thompson, however, didn’t mince his words while addressing Morant’s behavior.
“With Ja, he’s a funny guy. He has a lot to say all the time, especially for a guy who rarely takes accountability. But you know what? That’s for another day,” the four-time champion said.
According to Thompson, Morant had ‘nothing of intelligent depth’ to say.
“Just running his mouth. He’s been running his mouth for a long time and it’s funny to run your mouth when you’re on the bench,” Thompson continued. “It’s kind of the story of his career so far, just leaving us wanting more. You know, we all want to see him out there and do his best but he’s just been letting a lot of other stuff get in the way of that. We need that in the NBA, we need our best players to be out there.”
Thompson’s comments were about Morant’s ability as a player, disappointed that he isn’t utilizing his talents to the best of his capabilities.
“When you’re a star it comes with a great responsibility. I hate to see that go to waste.”
Morant Singled Out Thompson’s Shooting Struggles
Morant’s comments came from Thompson’s obvious shooting troubles, especially since he was traded to the Mavericks. Averaging 9.4 points and 2.5 rebounds per game, Thompson is shooting 34% from the field and 30.3% from the three-point line.
Thompson had never shot under 40% from the field before the 2025-26 season. Even fans are concerned about Thompson’s slump, wondering if being moved away from the Golden State Warriors has done more harm than good.
Thompson, of course, was speaking after Morant had been the subject of multiple controversies over the past few years. Many believe Morant lacks the focus to lead a team, never being able to pull off a successful playoff run.
He was suspended earlier this year, ultimately sparking multiple trade rumors. Analysts have cast doubt on Morant’s trade stock, declaring that few teams would want to play with him.
That being said, Thompson — a four-time NBA champion and five-time All-Star — has had the better career. However, one can’t deny Morant’s talent, capable of commanding the court whenever he’s locked in.
Following their clash on Saturday, the Mavericks and Grizzlies face off again on Friday, February 27, 2026.
