According to NBA.com, Isaiah Stewart, who plays for the Detroit Pistons, was arrested
on Wednesday, Feb. 14, for allegedly striking Phoenix Suns center Drew Eubanks. The incident occurred in the parking lot of Phoenix’s Footprint Center several hours before the Suns and Pistons faced off.Stewart, who did not play due to a sprained left ankle, was given a citation by Phoenix police. Eubanks, who went on to play, scored six points and grabbed eight rebounds.
Eubanks claimed the alleged altercation took place as he entered the stadium. An argument ensued before Stewart allegedly punched Eubanks in the face, and security immediately intervened.
“The attack on Drew Eubanks was unprovoked, and acts of violence such as this are unacceptable,” the Suns said in a written statement. “We unequivocally support Drew, and will continue to work with local law enforcement and the NBA.”
Meanwhile, the Pistons said, “We are in the process of gathering information about what happened and what provoked it, and responding to the NBA and local authorities.”
Eubanks’ teammate, Kevin Durant, also commented on the situation.
“Keep the game first. There’s a lot of noise,” Durant said. “It’s unfortunate what happened before the game; it’s supposed to be a brotherhood. But I also understand dudes get into stuff. We try to avoid that in this league, hopefully we can move on from it. We all support Drew.”
Despite the pre-game drama, the Suns emerged victorious by a score of 116-100.
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