Full Breakdown
Dream Defeat Tempo 102-77 as Harrison Ejected in Heated WNBA Clash
6/16/2026, 12:46:45 AM
Game Overview
On June 14, 2026, Atlanta Dream beat the Toronto Tempo 102-77 at Coca-Cola Coliseum. The decisive moment came through the third quarter when Tempo forward Isabelle Harrison received a Flagrant-2 foul for tackling Dream forward Angel Reese and was ejected, after which Dream extended its lead to secure win.
Background & Context
The Toronto Tempo entered 2026 as an expansion franchise with a 7-6 record before the game. Atlanta Dream, a contender, started 8-3 and sought the lead. Harrison missed the start due to thumb injury, debuting week before. Reese, former Chicago Sky teammate, was acquired by Atlanta in the offseason and had been averaging a double-double.
Key Players & Groups
Angel Reese, a 6-4 forward, leads in rebounds and posted a 15-point, 17-rebound double-double. Isabelle Harrison, averaging 9 points, scored 17 in 19 minutes before her ejection. Atlanta’s Allisha Gray added 26 points and seven assists; Rhyne Howard posted 24 points and three blocks.
Timeline of Critical Moments
- Q1: Tempo leads 25-13.
- Q2: Dream scores 34 points, takes 47-39 halftime lead.
- Q3 (6:05): Harrison’s Flagrant-2 foul on Reese; ejection. Dream outscored Tempo 89-52 to win 102-77.
Data & Statistics
The Dream posted 102 points, 44 rebounds and 23 fast-break points; the Tempo had 77 points and 24 rebounds. Reese shot 6-of-19 but grabbed 17 rebounds (11 offensive). Harrison’s 17 points were the Tempo’s only double-digit scoring. Gray’s 26 points and Howard’s 24 points made up half of Atlanta’s total.
Why It Matters & Impact
The win kept Atlanta near the Eastern Conference lead and bolstered its championship push. Toronto’s loss, with Harrison’s ejection and center Nyara Sabally out (hamstring), left the Tempo shorthanded and contributed to their Cup elimination. The incident underscored defensive intensity.
Official Statements & Responses
Tempo coach Sandy Brondello said Harrison’s effort was strong but the foul shifted momentum, stressing the need for steady effort and control. Dream coach Karl Smesko praised the team’s adjustments after early miscommunications and credited defensive intensity for the second-quarter surge.
Criticism & Opposition
Toronto fans loudly cheered Harrison’s ejection, viewing the foul as warranted and highlighting concerns about aggressive play.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I thought Izzy was playing so well for us, and she was a big target.” — Sandy Brondello, Toronto Tempo head coach
- “She does everything that we need to help us win and accomplish our goals for the game.” — Allisha Gray, Atlanta Dream guard
- “Chris Tanouye / Getty Images Head coach Karl Smesko said the key was how quickly his team adjusted after a shaky first quarter.” — Karl Smesko, Atlanta Dream head coach
- “Things just take time in the WNBA, particularly when you're new and on a new team,” — Isobel Borlase, Atlanta Dream guard
What's Next
The Tempo will travel to Indiana to face the Fever on Tuesday, then to Connecticut on Friday, and finish with a rematch in Atlanta on Monday, viewing the trip as a chance to grow together.
