NBA Hands Down Suspensions After Pistons-Hornets Brawl

Four players disciplined for roles in on-court altercation

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The NBA has issued multiple suspensions following a heated altercation between the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets during Monday night's game. Detroit center Isaiah Stewart received the harshest penalty, suspended for seven games, due in part to his prior disciplinary record. Pistons forward Jalen Duren was suspended for two games, while Hornets players Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabaté each received four-game suspensions for their involvement in the fight.

Why it matters

Fights and physical altercations are rare but impactful events in the NBA, often drawing significant league discipline and public scrutiny. This incident highlights the league's commitment to maintaining order and sportsmanship on the court, even in the heat of highly competitive matchups.

The details

The confrontation began after Pistons center Jalen Duren drove to the basket and was fouled by Hornets forward Moussa Diabaté. Tensions immediately escalated when Duren approached Diabaté following the whistle, sparking physical contact that quickly turned into a full-scale altercation involving multiple players. Stewart's involvement proved especially costly, as the Detroit big man left the bench area before entering the fray and engaging directly in the fight.

  • The incident occurred during the third quarter of Monday night's game between the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets.
  • The NBA announced the suspensions on February 12, 2026, two days after the on-court altercation.

The players

Isaiah Stewart

A Detroit Pistons center who received the harshest suspension of seven games due to his prior disciplinary record.

Jalen Duren

A Detroit Pistons forward who was suspended for two games for his involvement in starting the altercation and engaging in fighting.

Miles Bridges

A Charlotte Hornets forward who was suspended for four games for his role in escalating the situation and exchanging punches during the chaos.

Moussa Diabaté

A Charlotte Hornets forward who was suspended for four games for his involvement in the altercation and exchanging punches.

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What they’re saying

“As a player, I pride myself on my passion and my commitment to giving everything on the court during every possession. However, in the heat of a highly competitive and physical matchup, I allowed my emotions to get the better of me, and for that, I am truly sorry.”

— Moussa Diabaté (Social Media)

What’s next

The suspended players will miss several upcoming games for their respective teams as they serve out their league-mandated suspensions.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the NBA's zero-tolerance policy for on-court altercations and the severe consequences players can face for losing their composure during highly competitive games. The league's swift and decisive action in handing down these suspensions underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity and sportsmanship of the game.