Britney Gurr Faces Potential WNBA Ban After Heated Referee Confrontation
The WNBA is once again in the spotlight after a dramatic incident involving Britney Gurr, whose heated confrontation with a referee may result in severe league discipline—including the possibility of a permanent ban. The shocking moment, caught on camera, has divided fans and left league officials with a tough decision as they review the events.
During a tense matchup between the Atlanta Dream and Dallas Wings on July 31, 2025, Gurr was ejected in the third quarter following an escalating argument with referee Angelica Suffren. The incident began when Gurr was called for a foul during a rebound attempt. She immediately confronted Suffren, and what started as a verbal protest quickly spiraled. Despite receiving a technical foul, Gurr continued to argue, eventually making physical contact with the referee. This resulted in an automatic second technical and instant ejection from the game.
The crowd watched in stunned silence as Gurr was escorted off the court, finishing the night with just four points and four rebounds in only 16 minutes of play. This is not the first time Gurr’s behavior has drawn attention this season. Just weeks earlier, she was captured during a halftime interview yelling at officials in a profanity-laced outburst. Although that incident did not result in a suspension, it added to the growing criticism regarding her conduct and respect for league officials.
League rules are clear: any physical contact with an official is taken extremely seriously. While fines or multi-game suspensions are the most common disciplinary responses, some insiders believe the league may consider making an example of Gurr to reinforce the importance of professionalism and safety for referees. This has led to speculation about a possible permanent ban, although it is important to note that no WNBA player has ever received a lifetime ban solely for an altercation with a referee.
The WNBA has released an official statement acknowledging the incident and confirming that a review is underway. Sources suggest that a fine or short suspension is far more likely than a career-ending penalty. However, the backlash online has already begun, with some fans calling for accountability and citing what they see as a pattern of disrespectful behavior and emotional outbursts. Others argue that the media is overblowing the situation and that Gurr is being unfairly targeted due to her outspoken nature and past controversies.
As the WNBA reviews game footage and referee reports, all eyes will be on the league’s decision. Will officials opt for a measured response in line with past precedent, or could this incident mark a historic moment in league discipline? One thing is certain: Britney Gurr’s future in the WNBA is more uncertain than ever before.