The Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese found herself at the center of controversy during their June 15 WNBA game against the Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, after an altercation involving hair-pulling. The incident occurred in the third quarter when Bria Hartley of the Sun grabbed Reese’s hair during a rebound attempt, igniting tensions between the two teams in this highly competitive matchup.
Players React as Officials Intervene
The incident immediately escalated as Reese confronted Hartley, showing a readiness to fight, while Connecticut’s Olivia Nelson-Ododa quickly moved to defend her teammate. Tina Charles, a veteran for the Sun, further intensified the situation by provoking Reese as the officials stepped in to calm the players. Following a review, Hartley was given a common foul for the hair-pulling, while Reese and Nelson-Ododa each received technical fouls.
Reese’s Performance Overshadowed by On-Court Drama
Despite the altercation, Reese had a standout performance on what turned into a career-defining day. She recorded her first triple-double of 11 points, 13 rebounds, and 11 assists, although her scoring efficiency was modest at two for seven from the field. The episode highlighted the fiery competitiveness for which Reese is known, balancing her aggressive play with moments of controversy.
Background on Reese’s On-Court Behavior
Angel Reese has previously been involved in similar incidents, both as a victim and as an instigator. She has experienced hair-pulling by opponents and has also been noted for grabbing hair herself during physical plays, such as a past altercation involving her former rival and current teammate Kamilla Cardoso from South Carolina. This history adds context to the intensity displayed during Sunday’s game.
Game Outcome and Broader Implications
The Chicago Sky emerged victorious over the Connecticut Sun with a final score of 78-66. While the hair-pulling incident captured much of the attention, the game underscored the physical and competitive nature of WNBA contests. The flare-up involving Angel Reese hair-pulling incident in WNBA game serves as a reminder of the emotional intensity players bring to the court, which can impact both game dynamics and interpersonal rivalries moving forward.