Tempers flared Saturday when the New Orleans Pelicans faced the Phoenix Suns, leading to a heated altercation between Jose Alvarado and Mark Williams. Known for his relentless, physical style, Alvarado crossed the line as the exchange escalated into a fight on the court. The incident prompted swift action from the league, with the NBA announcing suspensions for both players. Here are the full details.
NBA Suspends Jose Alvarado and Mark Williams
With 2:06 minutes remaining in the third quarter of Saturday’s game, Alvarado found himself scuffling with Williams. The incident happened when the Pelicans guard was called for a loose-ball foul.
Alvarado was defending Collin Gillespie when Williams provided a screen for his teammate. When Alvarado bumped into Williams, the Pelicans guard shoved the Suns’ big man away, which resulted in a foul.
Williams didn’t appreciate the unnecessary excessive contact and pushed Alvarado while his back was turned. This ultimately resulted in a brief fistfight between the players. Alvarado connected a huge right hook to Williams’ head while the big man also threw a punch. Both players were ejected.
Fast forward to Sunday, the NBA has reprimanded both players and suspended them. Alvarado will be suspended for two games without pay, and Williams will be suspended for one game without pay.
“New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado has been suspended two games without pay and Phoenix Suns center Mark Williams has been suspended one game without pay for their roles in an on-court fight, it was announced by James Jones, Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations,” the NBA released on X.
“Alvarado will serve his suspension on Dec. 29 when the Pelicans host the New York Knicks and Dec. 31 when the Pelicans visit the Chicago Bulls. Williams will serve his suspension on Dec. 29 when the Suns visit the Wizards,” the statement addressed.
The following has been released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/x2rI0pCweB
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) December 29, 2025
While Williams’ absence for one game with the Suns won’t do too much harm, they are losing a valuable piece heading into Monday’s game against the Washington Wizards. Williams is the Suns’ starting center and is leaving a huge void inside the paint.
Meanwhile, the Pelicans will miss Alvarado’s tenacity on the court for a couple of games. New Orleans is struggling this season, being the worst team in the Western Conference. Losing a key player in their lineup will further hurt their record.
