Days before his much-anticipated return to the basketball court, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant found himself in a different kind of court on Monday, facing a civil case alleging assault during a pickup basketball game in July. Morant, who is currently serving a 25-game suspension for off-court behavior, took the stand, claiming he acted in self-defense when he punched teenager Joshua Holloway.

Testifying in the civil case, Morant detailed the events that unfolded during the pickup game at his father's home in Eads. The dispute reportedly began when Holloway threw a basketball at Morant's face during a routine ball check, a pre-game ritual. Feeling disrespected, Morant explained that his friend, Davonte Pack, initiated the physical altercation with a punch to Holloway. Pack then pulled Morant away from the escalating situation.

Morant, who has been on suspension for off-court incidents, including a video involving a gun, is poised to return to the basketball court on December 19. However, the civil case casts a shadow over his comeback, providing insight into the events leading up to the alleged assault.

During Monday's hearing, Morant's attorney, Keenan Carter, delved into the basketball traditions within Morant's family, emphasizing pickup games that date back to 2011. Morant recounted that after being hit with the ball by Holloway, he perceived a threat as Holloway approached, prompting Morant to throw the first punch in what he claims was an act of self-defense.

The legal proceedings also included testimony from Morant's father, Tee Morant, shedding light on the family's basketball traditions and the dynamics of the pickup game that led to the alleged assault. Tee Morant's testimony is expected to continue on Tuesday, further contributing to the unfolding narrative of the civil case.

Ja Morant's return to the court, eagerly awaited by fans and the basketball community, now carries the weight of a legal battle. The outcome of the civil case will not only impact Morant's reputation but may also have repercussions for his standing within the Memphis Grizzlies and the NBA as a whole. As the legal drama unfolds alongside the countdown to Morant's return, the intersection of sports and legal matters takes center stage in this courtside dilemma.