Video has surfaced showing Isaiah Stewart, formerly of the Detroit Pistons, throwing a punch at Drew Eubanks just before a game on February 14, 2024, against the Phoenix Suns.
Stewart was taken into custody for assault at the arena in Phoenix just hours prior to the game. He received a citation and was later released, while Eubanks participated in the match, which resulted in a victory for Phoenix.
In the footage, acquired by a local news station, Stewart is seen moving through the arena hall as Eubanks waits for him. Eubanks makes contact with Stewart’s chest, and then their conversation escalates, leading to Stewart striking Eubanks.
Following the punch, Stewart pushes Eubanks, who then retaliates by approaching Stewart again. It seems like Stewart is about to hit Eubanks once more before security intervenes, causing a separation between the two players.
After the altercation, the Suns issued a statement calling the attack on Eubanks unprovoked and described such violence as unacceptable. They expressed their full support for Eubanks and reiterated their commitment to working with local law enforcement and the NBA.
Monty Williams, the Pistons’ head coach at the time, expressed discontent with the Suns’ response. He emphasized the importance of gathering all facts before making statements, pointing out that it was premature to declare the incident unprovoked.
Stewart, a former first-round draft choice standing 6-foot-8, was given a three-game suspension by the NBA following this incident.
In July, Stewart was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in a six-team deal. Meanwhile, the 6-foot-10 Eubanks secured a non-guaranteed contract with the Knicks during the offseason, entering into competition with other veterans for a roster spot.
Eubanks has played for six teams over his eight-year NBA tenure, having gone undrafted from Oregon State. In the past season, he played 42 games with the Sacramento Kings, averaging 5.2 points and 3 rebounds per matchup. His previous teams include the San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz, and the Los Angeles Clippers.
