NBA Player Grabs Opponent's Throat in Preseason Scuffle
Detroit Pistons forward John Collins retaliated against Phoenix Suns player Dillon Brooks during a heated preseason game.
Tempers flared during a National Basketball Association preseason game between the Detroit Pistons and the Phoenix Suns, culminating in an altercation between Detroit's John Collins and Phoenix's Dillon Brooks.
Approximately five minutes into the contest, Brooks initiated contact by tripping Collins, who fell to the court. Brooks then intentionally bumped Collins as he attempted to rise. Later in the play, after Collins was fouled by Brooks multiple times, Collins responded by grabbing Brooks by the throat and confronting him physically. The incident drew players and officials to intervene.
Officials assessed Collins a personal foul, while Brooks received both a personal foul and a technical foul. Neither player was ejected from the game.
The Pistons ultimately won the preseason matchup with a score of 109-107. Collins contributed 10 points and three rebounds in 17 minutes of play. Brooks recorded eight points, five rebounds, and four assists in 14 minutes.
Social media reactions to the incident largely criticized Brooks' actions, with some users expressing frustration with his aggressive playstyle. The incident occurred on October 5, 2026.