NBA Suspends Four Players After Pistons-Hornets Brawl

Altercation leads to multiple-game suspensions and fines for key players on both teams.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The NBA has issued suspensions to four players following a heated on-court altercation during a game between the Detroit Pistons and Charlotte Hornets. Detroit's Isaiah Stewart received the longest suspension at seven games, while Pistons center Jalen Duren and Hornets forwards Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate were also suspended for multiple games. Financial penalties were also imposed on the players.

Why it matters

Suspensions and fines for player misconduct are rare but impactful events in the NBA, as they can significantly impact team rosters and lineups during crucial parts of the season. This incident highlights the league's commitment to maintaining order and sportsmanship on the court.

The details

The altercation erupted in the third quarter when Diabate committed a hard foul on Duren. Duren confronted Diabate, and the exchange quickly escalated, with Bridges throwing a punch and Stewart rushing off the bench to get involved. The chaotic scene lasted over 30 seconds before officials were able to restore order. All four players were ejected, and Hornets coach Charles Lee was also ejected after a referee review.

  • The incident occurred during the third quarter of the Pistons-Hornets game on Monday, February 12, 2026.
  • The suspensions will take effect this week, with Stewart and Duren serving theirs when Detroit visits the Toronto Raptors, and Bridges and Diabate sitting out when Charlotte hosts the Atlanta Hawks.

The players

Isaiah Stewart

A Detroit Pistons player who received the longest suspension of seven games for leaving the bench area and becoming involved in the fight.

Jalen Duren

A Detroit Pistons center who received a two-game suspension for starting the confrontation.

Miles Bridges

A Charlotte Hornets forward who was suspended for four games for escalating the incident by throwing a punch.

Moussa Diabate

A Charlotte Hornets forward who was suspended for four games for escalating the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Emotions were flaring. At the end of the day, we would love to keep it basketball, but things happen. Everybody was just playing hard.”

— Jalen Duren

“Sorry Hornets nation! Sorry Hornets Organization.! Always gonna protect my teammates forever.”

— Miles Bridges (Instagram)

What’s next

The suspensions will take effect this week, with Stewart and Duren serving theirs when Detroit visits the Toronto Raptors, and Bridges and Diabate sitting out when Charlotte hosts the Atlanta Hawks.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the NBA's commitment to maintaining order and sportsmanship on the court, even if it means handing down significant suspensions and fines to key players. It serves as a reminder that player misconduct, no matter how heated the competition, will not be tolerated.