NBA Suspends 4 Players After Brawl

Detroit coach defends team after fight with Charlotte Hornets

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

The NBA has suspended four players following a brawl that occurred during a game between the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets. Detroit coach J.B. Bickerstaff defended his team, saying the narrative that they react to everything is "disappointing."

Why it matters

Player suspensions are rare in the NBA, and this incident highlights the league's efforts to maintain discipline and sportsmanship among its players during games. The coach's comments also provide insight into how teams respond to such situations.

The details

The fight broke out during the game between the Pistons and Hornets. The NBA has not provided details on what specifically led to the altercation or which players were involved in the suspensions.

  • The incident occurred during the Pistons-Hornets game on February 12, 2026.

The players

J.B. Bickerstaff

The head coach of the Detroit Pistons.

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What they’re saying

“The narrative that's out there that we react to everything, every time, is a disappointing one, to be honest with you.”

— J.B. Bickerstaff, Head Coach, Detroit Pistons (The Manila Times)

What’s next

The NBA is expected to provide more details on the specific players suspended and the lengths of their suspensions in the coming days.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the NBA's commitment to maintaining order and sportsmanship on the court, even if it means handing down suspensions to players involved in altercations during games.