Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson Ejected After On-Court Brawl During BIG3 Debut

Tensions boiled over during an intense BIG3 matchup on Saturday, as former NBA standouts Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson got into a heated altercation that ended with both players being ejected.

Howard, representing the LA Riot, and Stephenson, suiting up for Miami 305, were making their highly anticipated BIG3 debuts. But things took a wild turn when Howard appeared to push Stephenson, igniting a physical clash that spilled into the crowd.

As the two grappled, Stephenson tackled Howard to the ground, landing directly on top of him, stunning fans in the arena. Security and officials quickly intervened, but the incident had already stolen the spotlight from the game itself.

Following the scuffle, both players were ejected, and the game resumed without the two stars. Miami 305 went on to defeat LA Riot 50-44, with the brawl becoming the main storyline of the night.

The altercation was a shocking twist in what was supposed to be a celebratory debut for both athletes in the BIG3 league, which continues to gain traction for bringing former NBA players back to the spotlight in a fast-paced 3-on-3 format.

Howard, an 8-time NBA All-Star, and Stephenson, known for his flashy play and competitive edge, had both enjoyed successful careers in the NBA and overseas. Their fiery encounter now raises questions about possible league discipline and whether this rivalry will continue in future matchups.

BIG3 officials have yet to issue a statement on whether suspensions or fines will follow, but fans are already buzzing about a potential rematch between the two teams — and the two players.