Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve expressed her frustration with the officiating during the WNBA championship game, claiming that the title was “stolen” from her team. The New York Liberty emerged victorious with a 67-62 win over the Lynx in Game 5, with a controversial foul call leading to Breanna Stewart’s game-tying free throws in the final seconds of regulation.
Reeve, a seasoned coach with multiple championships under her belt, including an Olympic gold medal, criticized the disparity in free throw attempts between the two teams. The Liberty shot 25 free throws compared to the Lynx’s 8, while Minnesota was called for more fouls throughout the game.
The Lynx coach specifically pointed out a crucial foul call on Alanna Smith, which she believed was questionable and ultimately impacted the outcome of the game. Reeve emphasized the importance of fair and consistent officiating, especially in high-stakes championship matches where every call can make a difference.
This is not the first time Reeve has raised concerns about officiating in a championship game, referencing a similar situation during the 2016 WNBA Finals. The coach called for a level playing field for both teams and urged officials to allow the players to decide the game on the court without interference.
Despite the disappointment of the loss, Reeve remains determined and resilient, ready to face any criticism that may come her way for speaking out against what she perceives as unfair officiating. The controversy surrounding the WNBA championship game serves as a reminder of the intense competition and passion that drives women’s basketball at the highest level.
As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and recognition, discussions about officiating standards and game integrity are likely to remain at the forefront. Coaches like Cheryl Reeve play a crucial role in advocating for their teams and pushing for improvements in the sport, ensuring that the focus remains on the athletes and the game itself.
