During the opening day of the revamped BIG3 basketball league, former NBA stars Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson found themselves in a heated confrontation during a matchup between the LA Riot and the Miami 305. The incident took place in the early stages of the game, with Howard and Stephenson coming to blows near the basket. Video footage from social media captured Howard shoving Stephenson, who then pushed him backward. Howard attempted to take Stephenson into a headlock, prompting teammates and officials to intervene. The conflict escalated down the baseline and into the stands before the players were separated. The 305 ultimately prevailed in the game, securing a 50-44 victory over the Riot. Stephenson led his team with 16 points, while Howard contributed 10 points and seven rebounds for the Los Angeles squad.
Dwight Howard, a Basketball Hall of Famer, was the No. 1 overall pick of the Orlando Magic in 2004. He was instrumental in the Magic’s NBA Finals appearance in 2009, though they fell to the Kobe Bryant-led Los Angeles Lakers. Howard later joined the Lakers during the 2019-20 season, which concluded with a championship win in the COVID bubble. His career also included stints with the Houston Rockets, Atlanta Falcons, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Lance Stephenson, a second-round draft pick of the Indiana Pacers in 2010, played for several teams including the Hornets, Lakers, Clippers, Timberwolves, Hawks, and Pelicans. His career has been characterized by a series of moves across the league, reflecting the competitive and dynamic nature of professional basketball. The altercation highlights the intensity of the new league, which aims to provide a professional platform for former NBA players to continue their careers.
The incident has raised questions about the challenges of maintaining discipline and sportsmanship in a competitive environment. While the players were able to disengage from the fight, the episode underscores the potential for friction when high-profile athletes are brought together in a new league. Despite the altercation, the outcome of the game demonstrated that the players are still capable of competing at a high level, with Stephenson leading his team to a convincing win.
The controversy surrounding the incident is likely to draw attention from fans and media, potentially affecting the league’s reception and future prospects. However, the continued participation and performance of players like Howard and Stephenson signal that the BIG3 remains a viable option for veteran athletes looking to stay competitive and engaged in the sport.