Replays, Vol. 03. "Artest is in the Stands!"
Revisit the best sports moments
Every fan loves to relive unforgettable sports moments. I am honoring that nostalgia with a Butterflies series called “Replays.” Each edition will revisit a special sports memory, add context, and share reactions and commentary surrounding it.
Context
Ok, maybe this wasn’t one of the best sports moments. Quite the opposite. I don’t necessarily feel nostalgic for this Replays edition, but it was such a defining moment in the NBA that I feel compelled to take a look back. It’s one of those YouTube videos you visit every few years and think, “Wow, that actually happened.”
Just over 21 years ago, the Detroit Pistons and Indiana Pacers were among the elite teams in the NBA. They met for an early-season matchup on November 19, 2004.
The season prior (2003-04), Detroit won their first championship since the “Bad Boy” Pistons won back-to-back titles in 1989 and 1990. The Pistons beat the Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals in six games on their way to lifting the Larry O’Brien trophy.
The Pacers proved they measured up and reignited the rivalry that had been building steam for years. With under a minute left in the 4th quarter, they had a 15-point lead and were ready to leave Detroit with a statement win.
What happened next has been immortalized in infamy.
The Moment
Reactions
Following the brawl, multiple Pacers players were suspended, which effectively erased Indiana’s chances of contending for a title. Ron Artest never returned to his previous form and was eventually traded during the 2005-26 season. The Malice and the Palace was a turning point for the Pacers, which led to a semi-rebuild until a player by the name of Paul George was drafted in 2010.
The incident also influenced rule and policy changes, including stricter arena security, limits on alcohol sales, and a greater emphasis on player conduct and image.
SportsCenter, the premier sports show at the time, reacts
Ron Artest shares behind-the-scenes details
Ron Artest on his biggest regret
Mike Breen on calling the Malice at the Palace
Comment Section
