When NBA Players Fight Their Own Teammates..

The NBA is known for its high-flying dunks, buzzer-beaters, and superstar drama—but sometimes, the real fireworks happen between teammates. From petty slaps to career-altering brawls, here’s a look at some of the wildest moments when NBA teammates just couldn’t keep the peace.

Petty Sparks Turn Into All-Out Brawls

It doesn’t take much for tempers to flare in the NBA. Sometimes, it’s as minor as being called a name or a slap on the cheek. Kyle Anderson and Rudy Gobert’s scuffle on the Timberwolves bench is just one example—both players lost their cool, and fists nearly flew in the heat of the moment.

They’re not alone. Mason Plumlee and Bones Hyland squared up mid-game, and even playful moments can turn intense—just ask Jalen Brunson, who responded to a slap with a surprising level of aggression. The message is clear: in the NBA, even the smallest slight can spark a fight.

When Motivation Crosses the Line

Chris Paul tried to fire up James Harden with a slap, but that only led to more tension—and the two split just weeks later. Patrick Ewing, a legend in his own right, famously put his teammates in check when they tried to disrespect him, showing that even stars have their limits.

Desmond Bane didn’t hesitate to shove a teammate, and Jimmy Butler has made it clear he’s ready for smoke with anyone—coach, reporter, or teammate. Kobe Bryant, ever the competitor, used practice as a battleground, pushing his teammates to their limits both physically and mentally.

Legendary Teams, Legendary Fights

Even championship teams aren’t immune. Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen once had to wrestle Dennis Rodman to the ground to keep him in check. The Milwaukee Bucks turned pregame warmups into WWE-style wrestling matches. And in a heated moment between the Lakers and Suns, Dwight Howard and Anthony Davis got into it so badly that it put Dwight’s career in jeopardy.

When Fights Change Careers

Some fights have lasting consequences. D’Angelo Russell’s infamous recording of Nick Young fractured trust in the Lakers’ locker room, leading to security being posted just to keep the peace. Larry Johnson and Alonzo Mourning went from franchise saviors to bitter enemies, culminating in one of the most iconic fights in NBA history.

And who could forget the practice punch that changed the Warriors’ dynasty? Draymond Green’s right hook to Jordan Poole not only broke the internet but also shattered team chemistry, leading to Poole’s eventual trade.

The Price of Competition

Even practice isn’t safe. Michael Jordan once punched Steve Kerr in the face during a heated scrimmage, while Shaq and Kobe’s legendary feud nearly boiled over into a full-blown fight. Chris Paul and Blake Griffin’s partnership in “Lob City” was marred by tension that eventually exploded after Paul’s trade to the Rockets.

The Celtics’ Big Four era was filled with so much infighting that coach Doc Rivers had to lie to the media just to keep the team together. Ray Allen and Rajon Rondo even put on gloves and boxed it out to settle their differences—a rivalry that ultimately led Allen to join the Celtics’ biggest rival, the Miami Heat.

Brotherhood, Betrayal, and the Unpredictable NBA

NBA teammate fights are more than just viral moments—they can change careers, end friendships, and even alter the course of league history. Whether it’s petty beef or deep-seated rivalry, one thing’s for sure: when emotions run high, anything can happen in the NBA.

So next time you see teammates jawing on the bench or shoving each other during a timeout, remember: it’s all part of the game. And sometimes, the real battles aren’t just against the opponent—they’re fought within the team.