Ex-NBA star Jermaine O'Neal says the backlash following the infamous "Malice At The Palace" was brutal and wrong ... claiming he and his teammates were labeled "thugs" after the brawl.
The 2004 incident between the Pacers, Pistons and fans in attendance is one of the most memorable moments in NBA history -- Metta Sandiford-Artest (Ron Artest at the time) rushed into the stands and fought a spectator after a drink was thrown at him ... and absolute chaos ensued.
Metta was suspended the rest of the season, Stephen Jackson was hit with a 30 game ban and O'Neal received a 15-game punishment for their involvement in the fight .