Pacers–Pistons brawl facts for kids

The Pacers–Pistons brawl was a big fight that happened during a basketball game. It took place on November 19, 2004. The game was between the Indiana Pacers and the Detroit Pistons. It happened at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Many people called it "the worst night in NBA history."

What Happened During the Game?

The fight started with only 45.9 seconds left in the game. A Pistons player named Ben Wallace was trying to score. He was fouled by Pacers player Ron Artest. Wallace got very angry because the game was almost over. He pushed Artest.

A fight then broke out on the basketball court. Several players from both teams were involved. After the players were separated, something else happened. A fan threw a drink at Ron Artest. He was lying on the scorer's table at the time.

Artest then ran into the crowd to go after the fan. This caused an even bigger fight. Players and fans started fighting with each other. The fight moved from the seats onto the court. It lasted for several minutes.

What Were the Consequences?

After the game, the National Basketball Association (NBA) took action. Nine NBA players were not allowed to play for a total of 146 games. This meant the players lost a lot of money. They lost about $11 million in total salaries.

Ron Artest was suspended for the rest of the 2004–05 season. He lost almost $5 million in salary. Another player, Jermaine O'Neal, also lost more than $4 million. Other players like Ben Wallace and Stephen Jackson were also suspended for a time.

Images for kids

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  Ron Artest running into the stands during the fight.

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  Ron Artest was traded to the Sacramento Kings a year after the brawl.

See also

In Spanish: Pelea entre Detroit Pistons e Indiana Pacers para niños