Today marks the 11th Anniversary of the infamous “Malice At The Palace.” Perhaps you’re too young, or you’re not a sports fan, but if you’re unfamiliar with Malice At The Palace, allow me to explain.
It was just like any other game day on the night of November 19, 2004. The Indiana Pacers were taking on the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan. What happened during the last minute of the game would make history.
At about the 45 second mark, Ben Wallace (Pistons) was fouled from behind by Ron Artest (Pacers). Wallace mushed Artest with both hands and ultimately a fight broke out between several players on the court. Things calmed down until an overzealous fan in the stands took it upon himself to spark things back up by throwing a drink at Ron Artest. That’s when ish got real!
Arrest leaps into the crowd to find the fan who hit him. Unfortunately he grabbed the wrong guy. Another drink was thrown and Stephen Jackson follows Artest into the crowd, punching a fan in the face. It was complete and utter mayhem between staff trying to break up the fights, players vs fans attacking each other, drinks, chairs and fists being thrown…It was a sight to see for sports fans all over. Nine players were suspended for a total of 146 games. Artest received the longest suspension, the remainder of the 04-05 season.
Happy Birthday to one of the greatest moments in my memory of professional sports. It was then that I knew Ron Artest was the real MVP.
Watch the video below.
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