The Pistons-Hornets game took a dramatic turn Monday night when a third-quarter brawl led to the ejection of four players before the Detroit Pistons held on for a 110-104 victory over Charlotte.
Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 33 points and nine rebounds as the Pistons snapped the Hornets’ nine-game winning streak in a physical game that escalated midway through the third quarter.
Jalen Duren set up the showdown after being fouled by Moussa Diabate on a drive to the basket.
The two players faced off before Duren Diabate hit an open right hand, sparking a lengthy altercation involving multiple players.
Officials ejected Diabate, Miles Bridges, Duren and Isaiah Stewart after the incident.
The tension continued in the fourth quarter when Hornets coach Charles Lee was also ejected after pleading for a no call and having to be restrained from confronting an official.
Despite the chaos, Detroit maintained control late in the game.
Tobias Harris hit a key jumper with less than a minute left and Cunningham sealed the victory at the free throw line in the final seconds.
Brandon Miller scored 24 points for Charlotte, while LaMelo Ball and Kon Knueppel each added 20 points.
Duncan Robinson finished with 18 points for Detroit and Duren had 15 before being ejected.
