**Stewart Ejected After Headbutt Sparks Chaos in Liberty-Sparks Thriller**
In one of the most dramatic and controversial moments of the WNBA season, New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart was escorted off the court by security after delivering a headbutt to Los Angeles Sparks guard Erica Wheeler during a heated fourth-quarter scramble on Tuesday night.
The Liberty-Sparks matchup had already lived up to its billing as a thriller. With the score tied at 78 and under three minutes remaining, both teams traded blows in a physical, high-stakes contest that featured multiple lead changes and several technical fouls. Tension finally boiled over when Wheeler and Stewart tangled near the free-throw line fighting for a loose ball.
Witnesses and multiple camera angles showed Stewart rising from the floor and thrusting her head forward, making clear contact with Wheeler’s face. Wheeler immediately dropped to the court, clutching her forehead as teammates rushed in. Officials stopped play, reviewed the incident, and ejected Stewart for a flagrant foul 2.
As the crowd erupted in a mix of boos and stunned silence, arena security personnel quickly approached Stewart. The two-time WNBA champion and Olympic gold medalist was walked off the floor amid shouts from both benches. Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello was seen arguing with officials while Sparks players surrounded Wheeler, who was later evaluated by team trainers and remained in the game after a brief delay.
The ejection shifted the momentum dramatically. Without their leading scorer and defensive anchor, the Liberty struggled to close. The Sparks capitalized, outscoring New York 12-4 in the final two minutes to secure an 90-82 victory. Wheeler finished with 18 points and 7 assists, while Stewart exited with 24 points and 9 rebounds in just 31 minutes.
Postgame, neither player spoke to the media. Liberty officials issued a brief statement saying the organization would review the play and await any further discipline from the league. The WNBA is expected to examine the incident closely, with potential fines or suspensions possible.
What began as a showcase of elite women’s basketball ended in controversy, leaving fans and analysts debating whether the headbutt was intentional or a heat-of-the-moment reaction. One thing is certain: this Liberty-Sparks thriller will be remembered far more for the chaos that unfolded than for the final score.