Angel Reese Injured in WNBA Game

The Atlanta Dream forward exited briefly after a flagrant foul by New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu.

Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Basketball

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a basketball hoop, evoking the tension of a physical foul in a professional game. — Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese remained in the game after sustaining a facial injury caused by a flagrant 1 foul from Sabrina Ionescu. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Angel Reese sustained a facial injury after being struck by Sabrina Ionescu during a game between the Atlanta Dream and the New York Liberty. Officials assessed Ionescu a flagrant 1 foul following a video review of the incident.

Why it matters

The play drew immediate scrutiny from officiating crews and impacted the momentum of the game. Reese managed to remain in the contest despite the blow to her face.

Reese recorded six points and six rebounds in 17 minutes of play before the injury. The Atlanta Dream held a 41-26 lead over the New York Liberty at halftime.

The players

Angel Reese

She is a prominent forward for the Atlanta Dream known for her rebounding ability.

Sabrina Ionescu

She is a star guard for the New York Liberty and a perennial WNBA All-Star.

Atlanta Dream

This is a professional WNBA team based in Georgia that competes in the Eastern Conference.

New York Liberty

This is a professional WNBA team based in New York City that competes in the Eastern Conference.

The details

The incident occurred with 5.6 seconds remaining in the second quarter when Ionescu struck Reese with her arm. After the foul was upgraded to a flagrant 1, Reese stayed in the game to successfully convert two free throws.

The Atlanta Dream faced the New York Liberty on September 23, 2026.
The foul occurred with 5.6 seconds remaining in the second quarter.
Reese returned to the team bench with 6:19 remaining in the third quarter.

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The Big Picture

The league has increased its emphasis on officiating consistency through the WNBA's 2024 updated flagrant foul review protocols. This incident highlights how officials utilize video reviews to manage physical play during high-stakes matchups.

Reese was able to convert both free throws following the foul, maintaining her point total for the game. Her return to the bench early in the third quarter indicates she remained available to the team after the contact.

The takeaway

Physical play in the WNBA often leads to immediate interventions by officials to maintain game flow and player safety. Fans should continue to monitor injury reports to see if the facial contact results in any missed game time for Reese.