The NBA has announced a three-game suspension without pay for Detroit Pistons forward
According to the Phoenix Police Department, Stewart was later cited and released, with an ongoing investigation into the incident.
The league stated that Stewart instigated a physical altercation by punching and pushing Eubanks during a dispute between the two players in the arena’s parking tunnel. Police intervened to separate them.
A Suns spokesperson condemned the unprovoked attack on Eubanks, asserting that such violence is intolerable. Suns head coach Frank Vogel also emphasized that such behavior has no place in basketball.
Stewart’s suspension commenced with the Pistons’ recent loss to the Indiana Pacers. He had been sidelined since January 28 due to a left ankle sprain.
Stewart was previously involved in a 2021 on-court altercation with LeBron James, resulting in James’ first career suspension without pay.
In his fourth season with the Pistons, Stewart has been averaging 11 points and 6.8 rebounds per game in 35 appearances this season.
Pistons head coach Monty Williams revealed that he and team officials spoke with Stewart, who provided his perspective on the incident. Williams criticized the Suns for what he deemed an irresponsible statement released after the altercation, emphasizing the need for gathering information before making public statements.
The Pistons stated that they are actively collecting information about the incident and its causes while cooperating with the NBA and local authorities.