Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart was arrested for assault on Wednesday after allegedly punching Phoenix Suns center Drew Eubanks at the arena just hours before their scheduled game. The incident took place as Eubanks was entering the arena, and according to him, an argument escalated to the point where Stewart threw a punch. Security quickly intervened, and Eubanks, despite suffering a minor injury, was able to play in the game.
The Suns released a statement condemning the attack on Eubanks, calling it unprovoked and stating that acts of violence are unacceptable. They expressed their unwavering support for Eubanks and pledged to cooperate with local law enforcement and the NBA in addressing the situation. On the other hand, the Pistons acknowledged the incident and stated that they are currently gathering information to understand what transpired and what led to the altercation. They also assured that they would cooperate with the NBA and local authorities.
Pistons coach Monty Williams, who was fired by the Suns after last season, expressed his belief that the Suns should not have issued a statement without having all the facts. He emphasized the importance of gathering all the information before making any judgments or statements. Williams highlighted that it would be irresponsible to jump to conclusions without a thorough investigation.
This is not the first time Isaiah Stewart has been involved in an altercation. In 2021, he had an on-court confrontation with LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, resulting in both players receiving suspensions. The incident with Eubanks adds to Stewart’s reputation for being involved in confrontations.
The incident has sparked discussions among players and fans alike. Suns star Kevin Durant expressed his disappointment in what happened, emphasizing that the NBA is supposed to be a brotherhood and incidents like this should be avoided. Durant hopes that the league can move on from this incident and reiterated his support for Eubanks.
It remains to be seen how the NBA will handle this situation. An investigation will likely take place to gather all the necessary information before any disciplinary actions are taken. The league has been proactive in addressing player conduct and ensuring the safety and well-being of its players.
In conclusion, the arrest of Isaiah Stewart for assaulting Drew Eubanks has sent shockwaves through the NBA community. The incident highlights the need for players to exercise self-control and avoid resorting to violence. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to cooperate fully and for the league to take appropriate action to maintain the integrity of the game and protect its players.
