NBA suspends Nash, Barnes and Alston
Sports Network | November 14, 2008
New York, NY (Sports Network) - The NBA has suspended Steve Nash and Matt Barnes of the Phoenix Suns, as well as Houston's Rafer Alston, for their roles in an altercation Wednesday.
Barnes and Alston were the main participants in the incident. Both were ejected during Wednesday's game and on Friday were handed two-game suspensions. Nash was suspended for one game for escalating the fracas.
In the third quarter of Houston's 94-82 win in Phoenix, Barnes threw a shoulder into the chest of Alston, who went back after Barnes. Nash then moved into melee and was knocked down by Houston's Tracy McGrady, who in turn was pushed by Phoenix's Shaquille O'Neal.
McGrady and O'Neal were each fined for their parts. McGrady was fined $25,000, while O'Neal was hit with a $35,000 penalty.
Barnes and Nash will each miss Friday's game against Sacramento, while Barnes will also sit Sunday against Detroit. Alston won't return until Monday at Oklahoma City, missing games Friday against San Antonio and Saturday against New Orleans.
