November 24, 2021
WNBA announces former Dream stars’ suspensions
Courtney Williams receives two games and Crystal Bradford one
On Nov. 23 the WNBA announced that former Atlanta Dream players Courtney Williams and Crystal Bradford would be suspended without pay for two and one games, respectively. The suspension is in response to a video of Williams and Bradford in an altercation with multiple nonplayers that surfaced in October.
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The minute-long video shows Williams and Bradford fighting with several women outside an Atlanta club and next to a food truck, and according to the franchise and players, the video was taken in May. However, it did not become public until Williams released the footage with an explanation in a now-deleted video on her girlfriend’s YouTube channel.
Soon after the video was released, the players’ agent Marcus Crenshaw explained that the Dream would not retain either player in the upcoming season on an Instagram live stream with Khristina Williams.
The Dream’s ownership faced serious criticism over their original nonaction, especially after indefinitely suspending Chennedy Carter in July for allegedly starting a locker room fight with Williams. Co-owner Renee Montgomery stated that ownership didn’t understand the “magnitude of the situation” and therefore waited to take action until the video was released.
According to the league, Williams and Bradford will serve their suspensions “starting with the first regular season game that each player is eligible to play following the signing of a new Standard Player Contract.”
Williams, who originally released the video, has continued to be very public-facing with the suspension news. She tweeted an explanation of the suspension while continuing to express her regret over her actions. She also emphasized her gratitude for the support she’s received.
It’s unknown what either players’ fate will hold this upcoming WNBA season, however, Williams has committed to playing in the newly created Athletes Unlimited league this winter. Tryouts will be held in Atlanta from Dec. 11-12.
Written by Gabriella Lewis
Gabriella is The Next's Atlanta Dream and SEC beat reporter. She is a Bay Area native currently studying at Emory University.
