**Former NBA Stars Clash in BIG3 Season Opener**
**Meta Description:** The BIG3 basketball league kicked off with a heated matchup between the LA Riot and Miami 305, featuring a notable altercation between Dwight Howard and Lance Stephenson.
**URL Slug:** big3-basketball-season-opener-dwight-howard-lance-stephenson
The BIG3 basketball league launched its new season with an exciting game between the LA Riot and the Miami 305, showcasing several former NBA stars. The match, held on Saturday, featured a notable confrontation between Dwight Howard of the Riot and Lance Stephenson of the 305.
Tensions flared near the basket when Howard was seen shoving Stephenson, leading to a brief scuffle. Video footage shared on social media captured Howard attempting to put Stephenson in a headlock as the former NBA guard pushed back. The altercation escalated, spilling down the baseline and into the stands, requiring teammates and officials to separate the two players.
In the end, the Miami 305 triumphed over the LA Riot with a score of 50-44. Stephenson led the 305 with 16 points, while Howard contributed 10 points and seven rebounds for the Riot.
Dwight Howard, a Basketball Hall of Famer, was the first overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. He had a dominant career with the Magic, leading the team to an NBA Finals appearance in 2009, where they faced the Los Angeles Lakers, led by Kobe Bryant. Howard also played a pivotal role in the Lakers’ championship win during the 2019-20 season in the COVID bubble, and has had stints with the Houston Rockets, Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers.
Lance Stephenson, drafted in the second round by the Indiana Pacers in 2010, has played for several teams, including the Hornets, Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks, and New Orleans Pelicans.
As the BIG3 season unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling matchups and intense rivalries among these former NBA stars.
**FAQ**
*What is the BIG3 basketball league?*
The BIG3 is a professional 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA players, founded by Ice Cube and Jeff Kwatinetz, aimed at providing a platform for retired athletes to showcase their skills.