The Detroit Pistons will be without Isaiah Stewart for three games as the NBA has suspended the forward for punching Suns player Drew Eubanks in an arena hallway on Valentine’s Day. The incident occurred during a heated argument in the bowels of Footprint Arena hours before the Pistons-Suns game in Arizona. The NBA announced the news on Thursday, just over a week after the altercation took place.
Key Takeaway
Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons has been suspended for three games by the NBA following a physical altercation with Suns player Drew Eubanks. The incident, which occurred in an arena hallway, led to Stewart’s arrest for assault, although the case has since been dropped. Stewart’s absence will impact the struggling Pistons as they face the Pacers.
League’s Decision
In a statement, the NBA said, “Detroit Pistons forward-center Isaiah Stewart has been suspended three games without pay for initiating a physical altercation with Phoenix Suns forward-center Drew Eubanks,” adding, “Stewart punched and pushed Eubanks during the altercation.”
Investigation and Outcome
The altercation was serious enough to prompt an investigation by the Phoenix PD, leading to Stewart’s arrest for assault. Simultaneously, the NBA conducted its own inquiry and announced its findings. Despite the legal charges, Stewart’s attorney, Alex Spiro, expressed confidence in the case being dismissed, and indeed, officials in Arizona have confirmed that the case has been dropped.
Impact on the Pistons
Stewart, who is averaging 11.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game this season, is expected to begin serving his three-game suspension Thursday night as the Pistons, with a league-worst record of 8-49, take on the Pacers in Indiana.
