Phoenix Mercury Coach Nate Tibbetts Ejected in WNBA Finals Controversy

Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts was ejected from a crucial WNBA Finals game. The incident occurred during Game 4 against the Las Vegas Aces. It happened on Friday night in Phoenix. Tibbetts received two rapid technical fouls. This led to his immediate removal from the court.

The ejection followed a heated argument over a foul call. According to the Associated Press, Tibbetts was contesting a call against guard Monique Akoa Makani. He engaged in a fierce confrontation with referee Gina Cross. The two technicals were assessed almost instantly.

Unpacking the WNBA Finals Ejection

The game was in the third quarter. Tibbetts, a second-year coach, expressed strong disbelief after the call. He was quickly escorted off the premises. Assistant coach Kristi Toliver took over head coaching duties for the remainder of the contest. The Mercury ultimately lost the game 97-86. This completed a four-game series sweep for the Las Vegas Aces.

Tibbetts later spoke to the media about the incident. He called the double technical foul one of the weakest ever. He stated he did not intend to get ejected. The coach also claimed he was unaware he had received a second technical. He expressed frustration over a lack of explanation from the officiating crew.

Broader Officiating Issues in the WNBA

This is not an isolated incident for the league. WNBA officiating has been a point of contention throughout the postseason. Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was also ejected during the semifinals. That incident involved an argument after a player injury. Reeve was subsequently suspended for the next game.

Player frustrations have also surfaced publicly. Star forward Napheesa Collier recently criticized the league’s leadership. She cited inconsistent officiating as a key issue. This sentiment was echoed by fans. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert was booed during the championship trophy presentation.

The controversial ejection of Coach Tibbetts highlights ongoing tensions surrounding WNBA officiating. This incident will likely fuel further discussion about accountability and consistency in the league.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Nate Tibbetts ejected from the game?

He received two technical fouls. This happened during a heated argument with a referee over a foul call. The second technical was issued almost immediately after the first.

What was the final score of the game?

The Las Vegas Aces won the game 97-86. This victory secured a four-game sweep of the WNBA Finals. They are the 2025 champions.

Who took over coaching after the ejection?

Assistant coach Kristi Toliver assumed head coaching responsibilities. She led the Phoenix Mercury for the remainder of Game 4. The team was already facing a significant deficit.

Has officiating been a problem in the WNBA this season?

Yes, several coaches and players have voiced concerns. The league has faced criticism for inconsistent calls throughout the playoffs. This incident is part of a larger pattern.

What did Nate Tibbetts say after the game?

He called the ejection embarrassing. Tibbetts stated he did not deserve the second technical foul. He also said he never received a clear explanation from the officials.

Trusted Sources
Associated Press