Napheesa Collier still feels “egregious” call robbed Lynx in WNBA Finals

Just over two weeks have passed since the conclusion of the WNBA Finals, a series filled with drama between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx. A few controversial late-game calls played a role in determining the final outcome.

The Liberty emerged victorious with a 67-62 win in overtime after a crucial foul was called on Alanna Smith of the Lynx in the final seconds of regulation when the Lynx were leading by two points. Breanna Stewart made two free throws to tie the game, and the Liberty secured the victory in overtime.

Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve expressed her frustration with the officiating shortly after the game, stating to reporters: “This game was taken away from us.”

Reeve also called for changes in the challenge system, suggesting that an independent group should review foul calls instead of the referees who made the initial call. She emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in officiating.

Reeve insisted that the contested foul should have been overturned if reviewed by an outside party, expressing her disappointment in the officiating decisions.

While it was unclear if Reeve’s perspective would change after the emotions settled, the postgame press conference highlighted the team’s dissatisfaction with the officiating.

This week, Napheesa Collier reiterated Minnesota’s belief that the officiating played a significant role in their loss.

During an interview on Podcast P with Paul George, Collier expressed her disappointment with the officiating and agreed that it was questionable.

Collier acknowledged that while the Smith foul may not have been the sole reason for their loss, the officiating throughout the game was inconsistent and problematic.

She emphasized the need for consistency in officiating and fair calls for both teams throughout the game.

Collier highlighted the importance of uniformity in officiating and expressed frustration with the lack of consistency in foul calls.

She also mentioned the team’s preparation based on scouting reports for referees and their tendencies.

Collier, known for her physical style of play, hopes for more clarity and consistency in officiating to ensure a fair game for all teams.

She advocates for equal treatment on both ends of the court and urges officials to maintain the same standard of calls throughout the game.