In a new step in the legal case involving Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, a court ruled on Thursday that Morant's lawyers can argue that he acted in self-defense after an incident with a teenager.
The event took place during a casual basketball game at Morant's residence in Memphis.
Circuit Court Judge Carol Chumney has scheduled a hearing for December 11, during which lawyers representing Morant and the adolescent,
Joshua Holloway, will argue whether Morant is free from culpability under Tennessee law.
Morant's legal team claims that he should be protected by the state's "stand your ground" rule, which allows anyone to use force if they feel threatened in their home.
Morant's lawyers claim he punched Holloway after being hit in the chin with a basketball tossed by the teenager.
The "stand your ground" law, which is generally employed in criminal trials, might now be used to seek immunity for Morant in the civil case, potentially leading to the lawsuit's dismissal.
The case, filed when Holloway was 17, charges Morant and Davonte Pack, an NBA player's buddy, of assault, reckless endangerment, abuse or neglect, and infliction of emotional distress.
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