Dwight Howard, Lance Stephenson Ejected After Fight in BIG3 Opener
Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson were ejected after a fight in the BIG3 season opener between Miami and Los Angeles.
Former NBA stars Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson were both ejected from the BIG3 league’s 2025 season opener after a fight erupted during the contest between Miami and Los Angeles.
The altercation, which spilled into the media area behind the basket, marred what was a highly anticipated debut for both players in the 3-on-3 league on Saturday (June 14). It all began when Stephenson appeared to elbow Howard in the chest, prompting Howard to push Stephenson’s raised fist away.
The two then exchanged shoves before grappling across the court and into media tables stationed behind the hoop. Officials quickly stepped in, but both Howard and Stephenson were tossed from the game. Stephenson’s Miami squad went on to edge out Los Angeles, 50-44.
Tensions were already high before the brawl. Earlier in the game, Stephenson was involved in another scuffle—this time with Jordan Crawford. After Crawford made contact with Stephenson’s face, the Miami guard threw a punch, but that altercation was defused before it escalated and did not result in any ejections.
The game marked the first official BIG3 appearance for both Howard and Stephenson. Howard, an eight-time NBA All-Star and 2020 NBA champion, played 16 seasons in the league and was known for his dominance with the Orlando Magic. Stephenson, best known for his time with the Indiana Pacers, had stints with multiple teams during his NBA career.
The 2025 BIG3 season features eight new teams and a revamped 10-week schedule, capped off with a championship game that now includes a $1 million bonus. Other former NBA talents like Kemba Walker, Wesley Johnson, and Montrezl Harrell are also competing this season.
