Marcus Morris appeared on ESPN show “First Take” on Tuesday and used a controversial term while talking about the Memphis Grizzlies.
The panelists on the show were discussing the upcoming 7-8 play-in game between the Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco, Calif. Morris, who played 13 seasons in the NBA from 2011-2024, was among those discussing the contest.
“I think it will be a really tough game. I really like the Grizzlies. The YNs, they’re really coming to play,” Morris said. “They’re gonna be excited. They’re gonna be ready to go.”
The term “YN” is the controversial one, and it left Chiney Ogwumike laughing. YN stands for “young n–gas.” Ogwumike couldn’t believe that Morris had used the term. Stephen A. Smith was stone-faced in response and may not have even realized what Morris had said.
Marcus Morris has some praise for the Grizzlies that probably hasn't been heard elsewhere on ESPN airwaves.
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 15, 2025
"I really like the Grizzlies. The YNs, they're really coming to play." pic.twitter.com/AusexESvtz
Given how bold of a player Morris was and also the type of clothing he’s worn to games, it’s not surprising to see the 35-year-old push the envelope while serving as an analyst.
At his peak in the 2019-2020 season, Morris averaged 19.6 points per game in 43 contests with the Knicks. He averaged 12 points and 4.4 rebounds per game during his career. Now he’s on the desk at ESPN and making headlines too.
