In a highly anticipated WNBA matchup, Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner was dramatically ejected in the third quarter during the Connecticut Sun’s dominant victory over the Toronto Tempo, following a physical clash that left fans and players stunned.
The incident unfolded with the Sun leading 68-52 midway through the third period. Griner, who had been battling inside against Connecticut’s physical frontcourt, became visibly frustrated after a hard screen from Sun forward. What started as a routine defensive stop quickly escalated when Griner shoved Thomas backward, prompting an immediate response from the Sun bench.
Officials stepped in as both players exchanged heated words. Griner, standing at 6’9”, towered over the situation but lost her composure, delivering a sharp elbow to the midsection of a Toronto teammate who tried to intervene. The referees wasted no time, issuing a double technical foul before ejecting Griner for the flagrant-2 violation. The crowd at the Mohegan Sun Arena erupted in a mix of boos and cheers as the two-time Olympic gold medalist stormed off the court, visibly upset.
Connecticut capitalized on the momentum shift. With Griner sidelined, the Sun went on a 14-4 run, stretching their lead to 25 points. Alyssa Thomas finished with a game-high 22 points and 12 rebounds, while guard DiJonai Carrington added 18 points off the bench. For the Tempo, Griner had tallied 14 points and 7 rebounds before her early exit, but her absence proved costly as Toronto struggled to contain Connecticut’s balanced attack.
League officials are expected to review the tape for possible suspension. This marks Griner’s second ejection of the young 2026 season, raising questions about her on-court temperament amid the Mercury’s inconsistent start.
Post-game, Sun head coach Stephanie White praised her team’s poise: “We stayed disciplined when things got chippy. That’s championship DNA.”
Griner’s representatives had no immediate comment, but sources close to the player suggest she felt targeted by overly physical play. The Mercury will look to regroup as they prepare for their next road game.
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