WNBA icon Lisa Leslie expressed strong disapproval after Brittney Griner committed a flagrant foul on Aliyah Boston during a recent Unrivaled women’s basketball league game. The incident occurred late in the third quarter when Griner and Boston battled for a rebound, resulting in Griner’s right arm raking across Boston’s face. Officials called a flagrant 1 foul on Griner for the excessive contact.
Leslie, a four-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA legend, didn’t hold back in her commentary. “I think that’s excessive and that’s extra,” she said. Adding a fiery take, she declared, “If that were my face, I probably would have p*nch*d her.” Leslie emphasized her straightforward stance, stating, “Don’t ask me, I’ll tell you the truth.”
The play drew widespread attention on social media and sports outlets, with clips circulating showing the hard contact. Griner’s history of physical matchups with Boston—including prior shoves and technical fouls in WNBA games—added context to the tension. Fans and analysts noted the intensity of Unrivaled’s 3-on-3 format, where competition has escalated, including other heated exchanges.
While the foul was deemed flagrant, no further punishment was immediately reported. Leslie’s reaction highlighted concerns over player safety and the line between physical play and unnecessary roughness in the growing league. Boston, a standout for the Indiana Fever, has faced similar physical challenges before, but Leslie’s blunt words underscored the veteran perspective on protecting the game’s integrity.
The moment sparked debates about officiating and rivalries, with many agreeing the contact crossed into dangerous territory. As Unrivaled continues to build buzz, incidents like this fuel discussions on maintaining respect amid rising competitiveness.
