May 3, 2025 – Memphis, TN
The Memphis Grizzlies have announced the indefinite suspension of their top player, All-Star guard Jalen Rivers, following a “serious violation of team conduct policy,” according to a statement released by the organization Friday morning.
While details remain limited, sources within the team suggest that the suspension stems from an off-court incident involving Rivers during a recent team road trip. According to those familiar with the matter, Rivers was allegedly involved in an altercation at a private event in Los Angeles, just hours after the Grizzlies’ win over the Lakers last weekend.
“The Memphis Grizzlies hold all players to the highest standards of conduct both on and off the court,” the team’s general manager, Dana Covington, said in the statement. “Jalen Rivers’ actions did not align with those expectations, and as such, he will be suspended indefinitely while we investigate further.”
Rivers, 24, is in the midst of a breakout season, averaging 27.3 points, 6.8 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game. His absence is a major blow to a Memphis team currently sitting sixth in the Western Conference and hoping to make a strong playoff push. He has not made any public comments, but his agent issued a brief statement asking for “understanding and privacy during this time,” while promising Rivers would “fully cooperate with team officials.”
Though this is the first official suspension for Rivers, rumors have circulated for months regarding off-court behavior and growing tension between the star and the front office. Some insiders suggest that team officials had already warned Rivers earlier in the season following a series of late arrivals to practices and team meetings.
Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins addressed the media following the announcement. “It’s disappointing, no doubt. But this is a chance for our group to come together and show resilience. We support Jalen as a person and hope to work through this as a team.”
The NBA has not yet commented on whether it will take additional disciplinary action.
In the meantime, backup guard Trevon Clarke is expected to step into the starting lineup as the Grizzlies prepare for a tough upcoming stretch of games, including matchups with the Denver Nuggets and Golden State Warriors.
More updates are expected in the coming days as the investigation unfolds.
