A fight broke out before a game in Phoenix between the Suns and Pistons on Wednesday, leading to criminal assault charges against Detroit center Isaiah Stewart.
The Phoenix Police Department said the 22-year-old assaulted Suns’ Drew Eubanks in an arena tunnel before tipoff. Authorities said Stewart was issued a citation and released. Eubanks, 27, reported minor injuries.
Assault is a misdemeanor in Arizona, punishable by six months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Phoenix authorities said their investigation is ongoing.
An initial police statement said an argument between Stewart and Eubanks escalated when the Pistons player threw a punch.
“The attack on Drew Eubanks was unprovoked, and acts of violence such as this are unacceptable,” the Suns said in a statement. “We unequivocally support Drew and will continue to work with local law enforcement and the NBA.”
Eubanks shook off his injuries and played 18 minutes, scoring 6 points and pulling down six rebounds in the Suns’ 116-100 National Basketball Association victory.
“There’s no place for anything like that in our game,” Suns coach Frank Vogel said after the game.
Pistons coach Monty Williams said, “The thing is to get all of the information. The NBA will do an investigation. For me to come here and make a statement would be a bit irresponsible. I know the Suns said it was unprovoked. I think that is irresponsible, for sure. You really don’t know, because two sides are giving their story.”
The NBA hasn’t announced any punishment for Stewart after his arrest. The fourth-year player has been sidelined since last month with a bad ankle.
“It’s unfortunate, what happened before the game,” Suns All-Star Kevin Durant said. “It’s supposed to be a brotherhood. I also understand that dudes get into stuff and stuff may happen, but we try to avoid that in this league.”
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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