Howard and Stephenson s personalities are afraid that they can t even play the BIG3 league.

On June 16, Howard and Stephenson's fierce conflict in the BIG3 league once again pushed the two old NBA players to the forefront. This conflict not only exposed the two's hot personalities, but also made people worry about their future in professional basketball. From the NBA to the BIG3 league, the two former stadium champions seem to be unable to escape the shadow of emotional out-of-control, and this conflict may become the last straw that crushes their careers. The

clash occurred in the third quarter of the game, when Howard had physical contact with Stephenson on a defense, and the two pushed each other and had an argument. The live video shows Howard rushes towards Stephenson excitedly, and the latter is not to be outdone, and the two sides almost have a physical conflict. The referee and teammates quickly intervened to avoid the escalation, but both were sentenced to technical fouls. After the game, neither side apologized for the conflict, but instead continued to confront each other on social media, full of gunpowder.

Looking back on the two's careers, this kind of hot scene is no stranger to it. Howard was known for his emotionality during the NBA and had conflicts with his teammates and coaches many times. From the collapse of the "happy basketball" concept during the Magic period, to the locker room turmoil during the Lakers period, to the conflict with Harden during the Rockets period, Howard's career has always been accompanied by controversy. Stephenson is even more famous for his "thorny" image in the league. From his provocative behavior of blowing his ears to his experience of breaking up with multiple teams, he shows his uncontrollable personality traits. The

BIG3 league should have been the stage for these retired or fringe NBA players to continue their basketball dreams, but the conflict between Howard and Stephenson shows that they can't seem to adapt to the competitive environment of the league. Although the competitive level of the BIG3 league is not as good as that of the NBA, the requirements for players' professional qualities are not low. League founder Ice Cube has repeatedly emphasized that he hopes to provide players with a platform to show their talents, but only if professional ethics must be followed. Howard and Stephenson's actions clearly violated this purpose.

From a technical perspective, the two of them performed well in the BIG3 League. Although Howard's physical fitness is still outstanding, his lack of systematic training has made his condition fluctuate. Stephenson relies too much on his personal singles style and seems out of place in the 3-on-3 game that emphasizes team cooperation. Their performance is far from fans' expectations, and this conflict has made people question their professional attitudes.

What is even more worrying is that this conflict may completely ruin the career prospects of both of them. NBA teams have long stayed away from them, and overseas leagues have also paid more and more attention to the professional qualities of players. In recent years, the CBA and other leagues have clearly stated that foreign players with personality problems are not welcome, and the European League also emphasizes the concept of team first. If even the BIG3 league can't tolerate their behavior, then the two really may face a situation where they have no ball to play.

In fact, this is not the first time that similar incidents have occurred in the BIG3 league. Previously, other former NBA players were warned or even suspended due to discipline issues. But the situation for Howard and Stephenson is even more special, because they are both still in their prime and theoretically have the ability to continue playing in the professional league. However, personality problems are always an insurmountable obstacle for them.

From a deeper perspective, this conflict reflects the general dilemma faced by professional athletes during their transition period. After leaving the NBA, a highly professional environment, many players find it difficult to adjust their mentality and cannot adapt to the rhythm and requirements of low-level leagues. Howard and Stephenson are classic examples, who are used to the attention and treatment of the NBA but are unwilling to make the necessary changes to continue their careers.

For the BIG3 league, how to deal with this conflict will be a test. Too severe punishment may make the league lose its appeal, but letting it go will damage the league's image. League management needs to find a balance between maintaining competitive order and maintaining entertainment. It is reported that the league is considering fines and bans on the two, while requiring them to attend psychological counseling classes.

From the fans' perspective, this conflict is sad. Howard was the best defensive player of the three seasons, and Stephenson also averaged 13.8 points per game in a single season. Both of them have excellent basketball talents. If they can control their emotions and focus on the basketball itself, they can fully rejuvenate their second spring in the BIG3 league. But the reality is that personality issues may allow them to end their careers early.

Looking to the future, Howard and Stephenson face difficult choices. Either change your attitude completely and accept the positioning of a role player; or continue to do your own thing and face the risk of being abandoned by professional basketball. The BIG3 league may be their last chance. If they can't even adapt here, then retirement may be the ending they have to accept. For players who have been glorious, such an ending is undoubtedly regrettable, but it is also the result of their own choice.