Suns guard Nash among three players suspended for fracas

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Phoenix Suns guard Steve Nash, forward Matt Barnes and Houston Rockets guard Rafer Alston have been suspended for an on-court fracas, the NBA announced on Friday.

Twice league Most Valuable Player Nash was banned for one game while Barnes and Alston were banned for two.

Suns center Shaquille O'Neal was fined $35,000 and Rockets guard Tracy McGrady $25,000 for their roles in the incident which occurred in the third period of Houston's 94-82 win on Wednesday.

The row erupted when Barnes knocked into Alston with his shoulder and the Houston player charged him.

Nash, cited for "escalating the altercation," rushed in and was pushed by McGrady who was shoved by O'Neal.

Alston will start his suspension later on Friday when the Rockets visit the San Antonio Spurs. He also misses Saturday's home game against the New Orleans Hornets.

Barnes will miss Friday's trip to Sacramento and Sunday's game at home against the Detroit Pistons.

Nash also sits out Friday's game.

(Reporting by Larry Fine, Editing by Tony Jimenez)