Brittney Griner, who joined the Dream to be closer to her family and find a better fit for her career, faced another challenging moment on July 30, 2025. During a game against the Dallas Wings, Griner’s frustration culminated in her ejection after receiving two technical fouls in the third quarter.
Details of the Altercation and Referee’s Decisions
The incident began early in the third quarter when Griner was involved in a physical confrontation with Wings player Haley Jones. Referee Angelica Suffren initially called a foul on Griner, which angered the Dream Center and led to a heated exchange. After the confrontation, Suffren upgraded the foul to a technical foul on Griner.
The situation escalated when Griner appeared to make contact with the official herself, prompting a second technical foul and an automatic ejection from the game. This moment marked a significant turning point in the match between the Dream and the Wings.
Impact on the Game and Immediate Reactions
Following Griner’s ejection, Arike Ogunbowale converted both free throws awarded from the technical fouls, giving the Wings a 45-44 lead with 9:02 remaining in the third quarter. Sports commentator Grant Afseth reported the sequence:
“Brittney Griner picks up two technical fouls and is ejected. Arike Ogunbowale makes both free throws, putting the Wings up 45-44 on the Dream with 9:02 left in the third quarter.” —Grant Afseth
This event highlighted the mounting frustration surrounding Griner’s performance and adjustment to the Dream’s environment, raising questions about whether her move from the Mercury was the right decision at this stage.
Broader Context and What Lies Ahead for Griner and the Dream
Griner’s transition to the Dream, intended to provide a fresh start and familial proximity after over a decade with the Mercury, has instead been marked by struggles on the court. The ejection against Dallas symbolizes the pressure and tension she faces this season, amidst growing expectations and team dynamics.
As the season unfolds, how Griner adapts to these challenges will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and teammates alike. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes and emotional intensity involved in professional sports careers and could shape how Griner and the Dream approach upcoming games and strategies.