WNBA to Punish Sparks Star After Incident Against Mystics

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

WNBA to Punish Sparks Star After Incident Against Mystics

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Aug 16, 2026 5:57 AM ET

Los Angeles Sparks star Rae Burrell is due to receive a fine from the WNBA. This comes after her actions during their game against the Washington Mystics on Saturday at CareFirst Arena.

The Sparks were holding a three-point lead with around 3:16 left in the third quarter. Things got a little physical with Mystics guard Alicia Florez. Burrell then hit Florez on the back with her shoulder.

The play was immediately reviewed, and a technical foul was given to Los Angeles’ 6-foot-2 guard-forward. This was her second technical foul of the season. The WNBA will now punish Burrell with a $500 fine, under league rules.

According to WNBA rules, a player shall pay a $500 fine for each of their first three technical fouls. The fourth through seventh technical fouls will carry a $1,000 fine. The eighth technical foul will be punishable with a $1,500 fine and a one-game suspension.

Los Angeles Sparks guard Rae Burrell (12)Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images

Despite the technical foul, Burrell still had a solid game, finishing with 20 points, three rebounds and three assists.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough for the visiting team as the shorthanded Sparks still lost 70-80 to the Mystics.

Los Angeles is in a slump, having lost eight of their last 10 games. They are also on a four-game losing streak after Saturday's defeat.

The Sparks currently have a 12-22 record and are 12th in the standings. Time is running out for them, as they have only 10 games remaining in the regular season.

Their next contest will be on Tuesday at the TD Garden in Boston against the Connecticut Sun.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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