Pelicans and Suns Players Ejected After Heated Altercation

Tempers flare as Williams and Alvarado exchange blows during intense NBA matchup

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the players and action on the court.The heated exchange between Pelicans and Suns players reflects the intensity and physicality of NBA rivalries.New Orleans Today

In a heated NBA game between the Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans, tensions escalated when center Mark Williams and point guard Jose Alvarado got into a physical altercation during the third quarter. The incident resulted in both players being ejected from the game after exchanging punches on the court.

Why it matters

The fight highlights the intense competitiveness and physicality of NBA games, especially during back-to-back matchups when players may be fatigued. It also raises questions about how the league will handle such incidents and whether additional disciplinary measures will be taken.

The details

The altercation occurred after a foul call on Alvarado, with the 7-foot-1 Williams and 6-foot Alvarado exchanging blows as Alvarado tried to pressure the Suns' Collin Gillespie. The Phoenix Suns went on to win the game 123-114, completing a two-game sweep of the Pelicans.

  • The incident occurred during the third quarter of the game on April 12, 2026.

The players

Mark Williams

A center for the Phoenix Suns who was involved in the physical altercation with Alvarado.

Jose Alvarado

A point guard for the New Orleans Pelicans who was involved in the physical altercation with Williams.

Jordan Ott

The head coach of the Phoenix Suns, who attributed the fight to competitiveness and fatigue.

James Borrego

The head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, who noted the physicality of the game and that both teams fought hard for the win.

Collin Gillespie

A sharp-shooter for the Phoenix Suns who was the target of Alvarado's pressure defense before the altercation.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The NBA is expected to review the incident and determine if any further disciplinary action is warranted against Williams and Alvarado.

The takeaway

The fight between Williams and Alvarado highlights the intense competitiveness and physicality of NBA games, especially during back-to-back matchups when players may be fatigued. It raises questions about how the league will handle such incidents and whether additional disciplinary measures will be taken.