Pacers Nation

Lore & Background

The Pacers were involved in the 'Malice at the Palace' brawl on November 19, 2004, during a game against the defending champion Detroit Pistons at the Palace in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The fight began when Pistons center Ben Wallace shoved Pacers small forward Ron Artest after a foul. After the altercation was initially broken up, a fan threw a drink at Artest while he lay on the scorer's table, prompting Artest to charge into the stands. Several players from both teams followed, and the brawl escalated, involving fans and players. The game was abandoned. The NBA suspended nine players for a total of 146 games, and five players were charged with assault. The fight led to increased security and limits on alcohol sales at games.

Reader's Guide

The Pacers are led by small forward Ron Artest, who scored 24 points in the November 19, 2004 game. Jermaine O'Neal recorded a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Jamaal Tinsley had 13 points, eight assists, and a career-high eight steals.

Did You Know?

• The brawl is known as 'Malice at the Palace' and was called 'the most infamous brawl in NBA history' by the Associated Press.
• Pacers player Ron Artest mistakenly attacked fan Michael Ryan, who was not the one who threw the drink.
• Pacers play-by-play announcer Mark Boyle suffered five fractured vertebrae and a gouge on his head while trying to hold back Artest.
• Five fans faced assault charges and were banned from attending Pistons home games for life.