Pacers Player Attacked, Fires Gun at Strip Club

Indiana Pacers forward-guard Stephen Jackson was attacked by another man, struck by a car, then fired a gun in the air in self-defense, police said this morning.

Jackson, who refused to receive medical attention, told police he was slugged in the mouth by another man during an altercation then was tossed onto the hood of a car outside Club Rio, the Indianapolis Star reported today.

The incident began inside the club patrons and Pacers players began arguing, police said. The players said they left the club, but the patrons followed them outside where the fight took place.

Jackson was at the club with teammates Jamaal Tinsley, Marquis Daniels and Jimmie Hunter, police said, noting that no one was arrested.

Other details were unavailable, but the investigation continues, police said.

“All parties involved are cooperating with the authorities,” the team said in a statement issued this morning.

“Since this is an ongoing review of the matters that took place Friday morning, the Pacers will have no further comment at this time.”

Jackson was suspended 30 games for brawling with Detroit Pistons fans at Auburn Hills, Mich., two years ago. Jackson pleaded no contest to misdemeanor assault charges related to the incident and was sentenced to a year’s probation and community service.

Last season, he was singled out by team president, Larry Bird for his bad attitude after several instances of arguing with officials and his coach.