Cheryl Reeve Ejection Sparks Fury Over WNBA Officiating After Collier Injury

Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was ejected from a crucial playoff game Friday night. The incident occurred during a physical 84-76 loss to the Phoenix Mercury. The game saw star player Napheesa Collier suffer a significant injury.

Reeve’s frustration boiled over with 23.8 seconds left on the clock. She vehemently protested a non-call on a play involving Collier and Phoenix’s Alyssa Thomas.

Reeve Blasts League Officiating as “Malpractice”

After the game, Reeve did not mince words. She called for a change in leadership at the league level regarding officiating. According to Field Level Media, Reeve described the crew’s assignment as “malpractice.”

She highlighted the game’s physical nature. Reeve stated Collier shot zero free throws despite drawing heavy contact. The coach also suggested Collier may have sustained a fracture.

The free-throw disparity was notable. The Mercury shot 22 free throws, making 18. The Lynx attempted only 11, making 10.

Playoff Implications and Broader Concerns

The loss puts the Lynx in a difficult position. They now trail 2-1 in the best-of-five semifinal series. Losing Collier would be a devastating blow to their championship hopes.

Reeve’s comments point to a larger concern about consistency in the WNBA playoffs. Her outburst reflects growing tension over how physical play is managed. This incident will likely fuel ongoing debates about officiating standards.

The league has not yet issued a statement on Reeve’s comments. Potential fines or other disciplinary actions are anticipated.

The Cheryl Reeve ejection highlights intense pressure in the WNBA playoffs. The fallout from this game could influence the rest of the series. It also raises serious questions about player safety and officiating integrity.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Why was Cheryl Reeve ejected?

Reeve was ejected after receiving two technical fouls. She ran onto the court to argue a non-call involving Napheesa Collier. The second technical foul automatically resulted in her ejection from the game.

What injury did Napheesa Collier suffer?

Specific details of the injury are not yet confirmed. Coach Reeve suggested Collier might have a fracture. The injury occurred after a physical play where her leg was taken out.

What was the score of the game?

The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Minnesota Lynx 84-76. This victory gave the Mercury a 2-1 lead in the semifinal series. The Lynx now face elimination.

What did Reeve say about the officials?

Reeve called the officiating “awful” and “malpractice.” She publicly demanded a change in leadership for WNBA officiating. She criticized the league for rewarding a physical style of play.

What is the status of the playoff series?

The Mercury lead the best-of-five series 2-1. They are one win away from advancing to the WNBA Finals. The Lynx must win the next game to keep their season alive.