A civil lawsuit against NBA player Ja Morant has been dismissed by a Tennessee judge, who concluded that Morant acted in self-defense during a pickup basketball game at his family’s home in 2022.
The plaintiff, Joshua Holloway, who is currently playing college basketball at Samford University, was 17 at the time of the incident.
Holloway alleged that Morant punched him during a game in July 2022 and sought damages for assault. However, Shelby County Circuit Judge Carol Chumney determined that Morant was protected under Tennessee’s self-defense laws.
Morant stated that his actions were a reaction to Holloway throwing a basketball at his face “with a one-handed, baseball-style pass” during a check-ball exchange, a typical occurrence in casual play. At a hearing held in December 2023, Morant testified that he felt threatened when Holloway hit him, pushed against his chest, clenched his fists, and took a combative stance.
In a ruling issued in April 2024, Judge Chumney maintained that Morant “enjoys a presumption of civil immunity” as established by Tennessee’s “stand your ground” law, which allows individuals to use force when they perceive a threat in their homes—a principle generally applied in criminal cases but relevant in this civil case.
During a January hearing, Holloway argued that Morant instigated the dispute and used excessive force.
Nonetheless, Chumney ultimately found Holloway’s narrative to be inconsistent and less credible compared to testimonies from other witnesses, including former NBA player Mike Miller, who noted that the game’s dynamics changed following Holloway’s throw.
In her final remarks, Chumney emphasized the positive potential of both individuals, stating they “each have unique opportunities to inspire youth and demonstrate mature leadership.”
She concluded by expressing hope that in the future, both men will spend more time on the “court” rather than in the “courthouse.”
Image Source: Ja Morant @ Instagram
