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A Look Back To 30 Years Ago When Pat Riley, Doc Rivers Were Involved In One Of NBA's Biggest Brawls

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Heat
By Shandel Richardson | Last updated 3/23/23

Miami Heat team president Pat Riley and Philadelphia 76ers coach Doc Rivers have always been tough on players during their careers.

It is trait they have always had, even 30 years ago. On March 23, 1993, they were part of one of the biggest brawls in NBA history during a game against the Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks.

Riley was the coach of the Knicks and Rivers their point guard. The altercation started when Suns guard Kevin Johnson set a hard screen on Rivers. Chaos ensued when Rivers chased down Johnson and the two got into a scuffle.

It led to both benches clearing, with Riley joining the melee. In the video, he is seen trying to break things up instead stumbled and tackled a player. In all, 21 members of both organizations were fined and three suspended. Knicks guard Greg Anthony, now a TNT analyst, was dealt the biggest punishment. While injured, he ran on the court in street clothes and punched Johnson. He was suspended five games for leaving the bench and fined $20,500.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Heat and was syndicated with permission.

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