Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart was arrested for assault on Wednesday after punching Phoenix Suns center Drew Eubanks before their game started. The incident took place in the arena’s parking lot, and Phoenix police officers were called to the scene. Stewart was subsequently issued a citation and released.
Stewart had already been ruled out of the game due to a sprained ankle, while Eubanks went on to play and contributed six points and eight rebounds in the Suns’ 116-100 victory. According to witnesses, an argument between the two players escalated, resulting in Stewart’s punch that caused a minor injury to Eubanks. Security intervened and separated the players, putting an end to the fight.
In a statement, Phoenix Police Sergeant Phil Krynsky provided details of the incident: “Officers spoke to both players involved and a number of people who witnessed the incident. They learned there was an argument between both players as they arrived at the arena. Witnesses said the argument escalated when they saw Stewart punch Eubanks, causing a minor injury. Both men were separated by security which ended the fight. Detectives responded to investigate the incident and collect evidence. Stewart was arrested for assault and issued a citation and released. The investigation remains active.”
Eubanks confirmed that the altercation occurred as he was arriving at the arena. The players were engaged in a heated argument, and Stewart threw a punch before security intervened and awaited the police’s arrival.
The Phoenix Suns released a statement condemning the attack on Eubanks and expressing their support for him. They also pledged to cooperate with law enforcement and the NBA in addressing the incident.
Pistons head coach Monty Williams acknowledged the situation but believed that the Suns should have refrained from making a statement until the investigation concluded. Williams emphasized the importance of gathering all the information before making any statements.
Stewart has had previous altercations in his career. In 2021, he was suspended for two games due to an on-court altercation with LeBron James.
Acts of violence, such as the assault on Eubanks, are unacceptable in professional sports. The NBA and law enforcement authorities will conduct investigations to determine the appropriate actions to be taken regarding Stewart’s arrest and the incident as a whole.
