The Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans had a relatively quiet game, but it made headlines due to an altercation between Mark Williams and Jose Alvarado. Both players threw punches at each other after Alvarado was called for a foul when he shoved Williams, who was setting a screen.
This led to Alvarado showing frustration, who took the first swipe. Williams defended himself, but it escalated into one of the worst altercations of the season. This will most likely result in multi-game suspensions for both players, which is disappointing for them.
Ott was surprised by the altercation
It was surprising to see both Alvarado and Williams get ejected because the situation escalated so quickly. A few seconds before they were fighting, the Suns were running a simple pick-and-roll play, but Alvarado and Williams got tangled up, which resulted in the big-time fight.
As the head coach on the sidelines for the Suns, Jordan Ott saw what transpired. However, he was still confused by what happened. There was no lead-up to what happened, as the Suns and Pelicans were having a close game at 87-83.
"I didn't see it. I mean, I saw it start, and then all of a sudden, everyone jumped in it, so I haven't gone back to look at it. Obviously, that's what happens. It just feels like a lack of sleep. The second night of back-to-back, something always tends to happen," Ott said after the game.
Unfortunately for both teams, they will lose one player apiece. Williams has been excellent for the Suns this season, averaging 13.3 points and 8.2 rebounds per game. On the other hand, Alvarado is a reliable backup point guard who is averaging 8.4 points and 3.2 assists per game this season.
Moving forward, both teams will have to play without their players. It will be interesting to see how both coaches adjust, as Ott and James Borrego understand what their respective players bring to their teams. Commissioner Adam Silver and his team will be responsible for handing out the punishments for both players.
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