BIG3 Suspends Former NBA Players After Altercation

Two ex-NBA players faced suspensions from the BIG3 following an incident during the league’s first game on Saturday.

Lance Stephenson and Michael Beasley, who both represent the Miami 305, were ejected from the game and are set to miss one game due to their behavior. Beasley has been involved in a situation with Dwight Howard in the past, which may have added to the tension.

The altercation escalated when Stephenson threw a punch at another player from the LA Riots after being pushed to the ground.

Commissioner Clyde Dexter addressed the issue in a statement, emphasizing that their actions fell short of the professionalism and respect standards expected in the league. He mentioned that while competitive play and banter are encouraged, any form of fighting is unacceptable. The league prioritizes the safety and integrity of the game.

To keep the Miami 305 roster compliant with the minimum player requirement, the BIG3 will stagger the suspensions. Beasley will serve his suspension in the third week of the season, while Stephenson’s will take effect in the second week.

Ice Cube, the league’s founder, also expressed his regret over the incident on social media, apologizing to fans who expected a thrilling game between the Miami 305 and the Los Angeles Riots.

Stephenson, who played for a decade in the NBA, spent most of his career—seven years—at Indiana and had stints with several teams, including the Lakers and Pelicans, averaging 8.6 points per game. Beasley, on the other hand, had a slightly longer career spanning 11 years, averaging 12.4 points while playing for various teams like the Heat, Timberwolves, and Lakers.