A security video from February 2024 showing former Detroit Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart punching Phoenix Suns center Drew Eubanks has been released publicly.
The footage shows Stewart, who was ruled out of the game with an ankle injury, approaching Eubanks in an arena corridor. After a brief verbal exchange, Stewart dropped his bag and threw a punch at the 6'10" Suns player. Arena security personnel quickly intervened to separate the two. Eubanks sustained a minor injury from the altercation.
Phoenix police arrested Stewart but released him later that evening. The NBA later suspended him for three games without pay. No criminal charges were filed in the case.
This leaked video resurfaces a disciplinary issue from Stewart's tenure in Detroit. It highlights a pattern of on-court volatility for the player, who was also suspended for seven games last season after a fight during a game against the Charlotte Hornets. The Pistons traded Stewart to the Memphis Grizzlies in the offseason, moving on from a player whose physical style sometimes crossed a line.
For the current Pistons roster, maintaining focus on court performance is essential.
For Stewart, the immediate consequences were the arrest and the three-game suspension. His history of incidents likely factored into Detroit's decision to trade him. With the Grizzlies, he'll need to prove he can contribute without similar distractions.
The Detroit Pistons organization has undoubtedly addressed internal conduct expectations since this 2024 event. The current team's challenge is to build a consistent, competitive identity. After the playoff series against Cleveland, which they lost, refining roster chemistry and discipline will be offseason priorities. Fans can follow upcoming roster moves on our roster page.
The leaked video serves as an unwelcome reminder of past instability. The Pistons' future success hinges on developing talent and a strong team culture, leaving incidents like this firmly in the rearview mirror as they prepare for the next campaign.
