Jose Alvarado and Mark Williams engaged in a fierce physical confrontation, exchanging blows on the basketball court in New Orleans on Saturday evening.
The incident involving Alvarado and Williams erupted during the latter part of the third quarter of the Phoenix Suns’ 123-114 victory against the Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. The confrontation began when Alvarado attempted to maneuver past a screen set by Williams near the 3-point line. Alvarado, using both hands, forcefully pushed Williams—who significantly out-measured him by approximately 13 inches—in an effort to break free, resulting in a foul being called against Alvarado.
Initially, Alvarado voiced his displeasure to the referee, but his attention abruptly shifted to confronting Williams. The situation rapidly intensified into a physical fight, with both athletes landing multiple strikes. Alvarado appeared to connect squarely with Williams’s face before bystanders intervened to pull them apart.
As a consequence, both participants were expelled from the contest. The National Basketball Association is expected to impose additional penalties in the near future.
At the time of his ejection, Williams had contributed 10 points and eight rebounds as a reserve player. The 24-year-old, who is currently in his inaugural season with the Suns, had been averaging 13.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game prior to this match. Alvarado, playing for the Pelicans, registered seven points and three assists. He is currently in his fifth year with the New Orleans squad, having recently secured a two-year contract extension worth $9 million which commenced before the current season.
Despite the Pelicans narrowing the deficit to a single possession late in the game, the Suns maintained their lead throughout the entire second half, securing a nine-point victory.
Tensions flared once more following the conclusion of the game. Royce O’Neal seemingly approached Zion Williamson in the vicinity of half-court for a confrontation, but the situation rapidly de-escalated.
Devin Booker was the top scorer for the Suns, contributing 20 points to their win, elevating their seasonal record to 18-13. They have now achieved victories in four of their past five contests, including consecutive triumphs against the Pelicans in New Orleans. Dillon Brooks chipped in with 18 points, while Collin Gillespie concluded his performance with 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Trey Murphy III spearheaded the Pelicans’ scoring effort with 24 points, making 6 of 9 attempts from beyond the arc. Williamson contributed an additional 22 points as a reserve, and Derik Queen recorded 21 points and 11 rebounds. New Orleans is currently on a three-game losing streak, bringing their season standing to 8-25.
