Pelicans guard connects with right hook in fight with Suns opponent

A fight broke out during an NBA game between the Phoenix Suns and the New Orleans Pelicans, December 28, 2025. The altercation occurred in the third quarter when Suns center Mark Williams attempted to set a screen on Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado.

Alvarado was called for a foul after using both hands to try to move Williams out of his way. Following the call, Alvarado confronted Williams face-to-face, and after Williams gave him a slight push, the two players began fighting. Alvarado landed a right hook, and Williams also threw punches during the scuffle.

Players from both teams intervened to break up the fight. As a result, both Jose Alvarado and Mark Williams were ejected from the game.

The Phoenix Suns went on to win the game with a final score of 123-114, improving their season record to 18-13. Devin Booker led the Suns with 20 points, while Mark Williams, before his ejection, recorded 10 points and 8 rebounds in 11 minutes. The New Orleans Pelicans fell to 8-25. Trey Murphy III led the Pelicans with 24 points, including six three-pointers, and Derik Queen added 21 points. Jose Alvarado finished with 7 points and 2 steals in 14 minutes prior to his ejection.

Both teams are scheduled to play again on Tuesday. The Suns will travel to face the Washington Wizards, while the Pelicans will host the New York Knicks.