Detroit Pistons power forward Isaiah Stewart punched Phoenix Suns power forward Drew Eubanks in the face in a Footprint Center tunnel before the Suns' 116-100 win over the Pistons on Wednesday, league sources said. who were informed of the matter confirmed to The Athletic. It's unclear what sparked the altercation in Phoenix.
“We are aware of the incident between Isaiah Stewart and Drew Eubanks prior to tonight’s game,” Detroit said in a statement. “We are in the process of gathering information about what happened and what triggered it, and responding to the NBA and local authorities.”
According to league sources, both Stewart and Eubanks were standing chest-to-chest before a punch struck Eubanks in the lip area. Police had to intervene to separate the two and were called to the scene. After the altercation, Stewart left the arena along with Pistons employees. The NBA is expected to receive footage for review.
“The attack on Drew Eubanks was unprovoked and acts of violence like this are unacceptable,” a Suns spokesman said. “We fully support Drew and will continue to work with local law enforcement and the NBA.”
During a match between the two teams on November 5 in Detroit, both Stewart and Eubanks were particularly aggressive with each other, engaging in verbal altercations throughout the game.
“I know there were statements,” Pistons coach Monty Williams said of the postgame altercation. “I want to get all the information.”
Williams said he spoke with Stewart and Stewart explained what happened. Williams continued by saying he thought it was irresponsible for the Suns to claim the altercation was “unprovoked.” He believes that all information should be gathered before saying something like that.
Stewart has missed the last few games with an ankle injury. He accompanied the Pistons on their West Coast swing to prepare for a return after the All-Star break. Eubanks warmed up after the altercation and two hours before the game.
Eubanks finished the game with six points, eight rebounds, two steals and two blocks in 18 minutes of play.
(Photo: Chris Schwegler / NBAE via Getty Images)