NBA Suspends Players After Hornets-Pistons Brawl

Altercation leads to multiple ejections during Monday's game in Charlotte.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The NBA has announced suspensions for players involved in a fight that broke out during the third quarter of Monday's game between the Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons. The brawl resulted in four players being ejected from the game.

Why it matters

Player altercations and on-court fights are rare but impactful events in the NBA, often leading to suspensions and fines that can affect team rosters and lineups. This incident highlights the league's efforts to maintain order and sportsmanship during games.

The details

The fight began after a physical play under the basket, with players from both teams shoving and exchanging words. The situation quickly escalated, with punches thrown and the referees needing to separate the players. After reviewing the incident, the NBA announced suspensions for several players involved.

  • The fight occurred during the third quarter of Monday's game between the Charlotte Hornets and Detroit Pistons.
  • The NBA announced the suspensions on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Charlotte Hornets

The NBA team based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Detroit Pistons

The NBA team based in Detroit, Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“We do not condone this type of behavior from our players. The league has made it clear that fighting will not be tolerated, and we will support the suspensions handed down.”

— Mitch Kupchak, General Manager, Charlotte Hornets (Charlotte Observer)

“Our guys were just trying to stand up for each other. Things got out of hand, but that's basketball sometimes. We'll learn from this and move forward.”

— Dwane Casey, Head Coach, Detroit Pistons (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

The suspended players will miss their team's next games, and the league will likely review its policies around on-court altercations to determine if any additional measures are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The takeaway

While physical play is part of the game, the NBA has made it clear that fighting and unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. This incident serves as a reminder to players that they must maintain their composure and set a positive example, even in the heat of competition.