Rafer Alston Explains Slapping Eddie House: "I Thought I Saw a Bug"

In an unusual incident Wednesday night, Magic point guard Rafer Alston decided it would be a great idea to slap the Celtics' Eddie House in the back of his head.

The Internet has gone wild because of the slap, insisting that Alston should be suspended for a game for what seemed to be a pretty girly way to hit somebody.

It has come to light, though, that Alston was in no way trying to injure House, and he came out saying he did indeed have a good reason for the slap.

"I could have sworn there was a giant insect on his headband, a real nasty, bloodsucking-looking thing," Alston said after the game.

"I was merely looking out for his safety, and I think that says a lot about my character. After all, he was embarrassing us out there. How many other players would protect an opponent from a killer insect after they just hit a three in their eye? Exactly."

When House was asked about the slap, he had nothing but praise for Alston's efforts.

"At first, I had no idea why he slapped me, but after hearing his explanation, I am satisfied, and I want to thank him."

House even went as far as complimenting Alston.

"When I felt something on the back of my head, I thought somebody had hit me with a pillow. I have to applaud Alston for having the softest hands I have ever felt from a man. I think Kevin Garnett needs to take lotion advice from him."

While the bug excuse may not fly with some people, Alston gave reporters a bit of a back story to help explain why it would make sense.

"I'm originally a street baller, so I am used to be playing at night on these outdoor courts that at times were overrun with bugs," Alston explained.

"You should have seen some of the roaches that used to share the courts with us—absolutely repulsive. If you had seen some of the things I have, you might understand."

For now, Alston is waiting on the NBA's decision on whether or not he will be suspended. But after hearing him plead his case, I just do not see how you can suspend a man for saving a fellow player from serious danger.