The NBA has witnessed numerous controversial moments both on and off the court throughout its history. From violent brawls to shocking revelations, these scandals have left lasting impacts on the league. Here are five of the most significant scandals in NBA history.
5. The Donald Sterling Ban (2014)
The NBA took an unprecedented stand against racism by banning Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling for life in 2014. After Sterling was recorded making racist comments in leaked audio, players, fans, and NBA legends demanded action. Commissioner Adam Silver responded swiftly, imposing a lifetime ban, a $2.5 million fine, and forcing Sterling to sell the team. This decision established the NBA’s zero-tolerance policy for discrimination.
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4. Knicks-Nuggets Brawl (2006)
One of the most infamous fights in NBA history began with Mardy Collins’ hard foul on Denver Nuggets’ J.R. Smith, quickly escalating into a full-team altercation. New York Knicks guard Nate Robinson and Smith tumbled into the stands, while Carmelo Anthony, then with the Nuggets, threw a punch before retreating. The league responded with 47 total games in suspensions, including 15 for Anthony, and $500,000 fines for both teams.
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3. Bobby Portis Suspension (2025)
In the NBA’s most recent major scandal, Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. received a 25-game suspension for testing positive for Tramadol, a banned substance. Despite Portis claiming he mistakenly took Tramadol instead of the prescribed legal painkiller Toradol for an elbow injury, the NBA enforced its strict drug policy, demonstrating how even unintentional violations carry severe consequences.
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2. Tim Donaghy Betting Scandal (2007)
NBA referee Tim Donaghy severely damaged the league’s credibility when he was caught betting on games he officiated and providing inside information to gamblers. The scandal resulted in a 15-month prison sentence for Donaghy and continues to fuel conspiracy theories about game-fixing in professional basketball.
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1. Malice at the Palace (2004)
The most notorious brawl in NBA history occurred on November 19, 2004, during a game between the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons. When a fan threw a drink at Pacers forward Ron Artest (now Metta Sandiford-Artest), the situation erupted into chaos as Artest charged into the stands. The “Malice at the Palace” resulted in unprecedented penalties, including a 73-game suspension for Artest – the longest ever for an on-court incident. This incident led to major reforms in arena security and fan-player interaction policies.
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