Cade Cunningham delivered a standout performance, scoring 33 points along with nine rebounds and seven assists, as the Detroit Pistons defeated the Charlotte Hornets 110-104 on Tuesday, Philippine time. The hard-fought game took place at Charlotte and saw a major brawl erupt in the third quarter that resulted in multiple player ejections and disrupted the Hornets’ nine-game winning streak.
Intense Confrontation Sparks Bench-Clearing Altercation
The violent incident started when Charlotte’s Moussa Diabate fouled Detroit’s Jalen Duren during a paint-area shot attempt, prompting Duren to retaliate with a slap. This exchange triggered a confrontation that escalated quickly, culminating in a second fight near midcourt involving Charlotte’s Miles Bridges and Detroit’s Isaiah Stewart, who had come off the bench.
The chaos spread across the court and led to the ejections of Diabate, Bridges, Duren, and Stewart at the 7:09 mark of the third quarter, with the Pistons holding a lead of 70-62 at that time.
“BENCHES CLEAR IN PISTONS-HORNETS 😲Moussa Diabate, Miles Bridges, Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart were all ejected following the altercation during Pistons-Hornets.” ?ESPN
Key Contributions Aside from Cunningham’s Dominance
Besides Cunningham’s leadership on the scoreboard, Duncan Robinson contributed 18 points while shooting an efficient 8-for-10 from the field. Jalen Duren added 15 points in 20 minutes, and Paul Reed chipped in with 12 points to support the Pistons. Despite struggling from three-point range, going 5-for-25, Detroit managed to maintain their edge amid the game’s disruptions.
For the Hornets, Brandon Miller led scoring with 24 points. Kon Knueppel and LaMelo Ball each finished with 20 points, with Knueppel hitting five three-pointers. Although Diabate was held scoreless in 19 minutes, he posted a team-high of six rebounds. Charlotte held a significant advantage in three-point shooting, making 57-15, highlighting their perimeter strength despite the loss.
Final Moments and Hornets’ Coach Ejection
Following the brawl, the Pistons extended their lead to 85-69 with Paul Reed hitting two free throws late in the third quarter. The Hornets steadily narrowed the gap, with Miller’s jumper and two late free throws bringing the score to 104-100 with just over a minute remaining. However, missed three-point attempts from Miller and Knueppel prevented Charlotte from getting closer.
At the other end, Tobias Harris sank a short jumper to maintain Detroit’s lead. Harris ended the game with 11 points. The Hornets executed flawlessly from the free-throw line, converting all 17 attempts during the game.
Meanwhile, Charlotte head coach Charles Lee was ejected in the fourth quarter after vehemently protesting an offensive foul called against Grant Williams.
“Hornets HC Charles Lee was ejected in the 4th quarter vs. the Pistons for shouting at the referee after an offensive foul was called on Grant Williams.” ?Yahoo Sports
Impact of the Win and Looking Ahead
This victory marked the Pistons’ seventh win in their last nine games, signaling a strong run motivated by Cade Cunningham’s leadership and the team’s resilience under pressure. Ending the Hornets’ nine-game streak also reflects a shift in momentum, as Detroit demonstrates its ability to win tightly contested and emotionally charged games.
With several key players ejected and Charlotte’s head coach also removed, both teams will likely review disciplinary measures and strategize for upcoming matchups. The Pistons’ winning form positions them as a team to watch, while the Hornets face a challenge to regain their composure and continue their pursuit of success.
Handled business. pic.twitter.com/PlaKCkOLA4
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) February 10, 2026
BENCHES CLEAR IN PISTONS-HORNETS 😲
Moussa Diabate, Miles Bridges, Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart were all ejected following the altercation during Pistons-Hornets. pic.twitter.com/VeNSi6vEBR
— ESPN (@espn) February 10, 2026
Hornets HC Charles Lee was ejected in the 4th quarter vs. the Pistons for shouting at the referee after an offensive foul was called on Grant Williams. pic.twitter.com/IbK68KGM9F
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) February 10, 2026
