Mystics coach ejected, escorted off court in loss to Dream

Washington Mystics head coach Sydney Johnson was ejected and escorted off the court by police during his team's 109-77 loss to the Atlanta Dream on Saturday night. The incident occurred at the Gateway Center in College Park, Georgia, after Johnson erupted in a heated confrontation with game officials late in the third quarter.

The outburst began after a foul was called on Mystics guard Alicia Florez Getino as she defended a drive by Dream star Angel Reese. Johnson immediately contested the call, and his argument escalated rapidly. Assistant coaches and players, including rookie Kiki Iriafen, attempted to restrain him as he continued to berate the officiating crew. Officials assessed Johnson two technical fouls, resulting in his ejection with 3:52 remaining in the quarter and Atlanta leading 64-43.

Despite the ejection, Johnson continued his protest, prompting intervention from law enforcement officers stationed at the arena. Three officers escorted the 52-year-old coach off the court and into the tunnel toward the locker room. Assistant coach Emre Vatansever assumed head coaching duties for the remainder of the game.

After the game, Johnson took responsibility for his actions. He...