Why did Isaiah Stewart try to fight LeBron James in 2021?

Isaiah Stewart, the Detroit Pistons’ big man, found himself embroiled in an altercation with Drew Eubanks, the Phoenix Suns’ center. The incident unfolded in the back tunnels of the Footprint Center just before the scheduled game between the two teams.

According to reports by The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Stewart and Eubanks were “chest-to-chest” in a heated exchange. Suddenly, Stewart swung a punch that connected with Eubanks in the lip area

This is not the first time Stewart gets into an altercation. On a strange night in November 21, the Lakers and Pistons faced off in a game that had fans on the edge of their seats. The Lakers, struggling despite LeBron James’ return after an eight-game absence due to an abdominal strain, found themselves trailing by 11 points on the road in Detroit. When Jerami Grant missed his second free throw, chaos erupted.

What created Isaiah Stewart’s fury against LeBron James

James and Stewart got tangled up, resulting in James striking Stewart in the face. The hit left Stewart bloodied and enraged.

Isaiah Stewart’s reaction was intense. As his teammates, coaches, and officials tried to restrain him, he broke free like an NFL running back charging at James. Both players were ejected from the game. Remarkably, the incident seemed to ignite a fire in the Lakers, who rallied to win the game 121-116. Stewart’s fury and James’ swing had set the court ablaze.

Suspensions and Aftermath

Days later, the NBA handed down disciplinary action. Stewart received a two-game suspension for “escalating an on-court altercation by repeatedly and aggressively pursuing James.” LeBron James, known for his otherwise impeccable record with the league office, faced a one-game suspension for “recklessly hitting” Stewart in the face. It was a rare blemish on James’ career. After serving his suspension, James returned to the court, leaving behind a memorable chapter in NBA history.