Legal Verdict Against Memphis Restaurant
A Shelby County Chancery Court has ruled for NBA All-Star Ja Morant, ordering Memphis restaurant The Wing Guru to pay more than $300,000 after finding the business breached a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) agreement.
Background of the Dispute
Morant had served as a spokesperson for the chain under an NIL deal signed years earlier. He alleged the restaurant continued to use his image in promotions while failing to make agreed payments, including a publicly acknowledged $75,000 Instagram promise that was never fulfilled.
Arbitration and Court Ruling
An arbitrator previously sided with Morant, directing The Wing Guru to stop using his likeness and to pay $300,000. The arbitrator also awarded roughly $65,000 for interest and legal costs.
Court's Decision and Enforcement
The chancery court backed that outcome and entered a default judgment after the business repeatedly could not be reached. Sheriff's deputies and the Tennessee Secretary of State's office attempted service for months without success, and the restaurant did not respond to the lawsuit.
Morant's Recent Activities
Outs...