WNBA star’s post Finals social media story adds to RIGGED controversy
Minnesota Lynx superstar Napheesa Collier posted a few pictures that have added to the officiating controversy of the WNBA Finals.
WNBA Finals officiating controversy gets silent criticism from Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier
The 2024 WNBA season was a whirlwind when considering the astronomical growth the league enjoyed in terms of fan following. Millions tuned in to watch the season finale as the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx battled in the WNBA Finals.
However, the controversial Game 5 ending has left a bad taste in the mouth of fans and Lynx star Napheesa Collier. Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve was the loudest of the voices as she felt the officiating cost them the title.
Collier did not say much about the foul calls in the post-game press conference. However, after wiping away her tears and consoling her teammates, she took to her official Instagram account to post a series of photographs thanking her teammates and coaches.
The final three photographs are from Game 5. The first one shows Collier with the ball in her hand, with her opponent’s hand on her face. The next photograph points to a foul against the Minnesota Lynx. WNBA Finals MVP Jonquel Jones was seen grabbing her leg as teammate Alanna Smith stood with her hands to her head, seemingly showcasing their shock at that foul call.
The final picture shows Breanna Stewart launching for the jump shot in which she received a foul call. Smith can be seen not having any part of her body touching Stewart.
Napheesa Collier’s silent protest should force WNBA to make changes to officiating crew
Napheesa Collier’s head coach Cheryl Reeve is known to not have a filter when it comes to expressing her true feelings. In contrast, her best player is softer in handling media questions.
The Defensive Player of the Year’s photographs speak louder than what she would have expressed. With this and the multiple voices that have spoken against the WNBA’s officiating, the league should be giving it serious thought.
Referee-induced mistakes have been a major problem all throughout this season. It is unsure if it is a lack of training or if the league cannot pay for better referees. But whatever the problems are, with the growing interest in the league, it might as well sort it out at the earliest.
With more fans. the negative noise if such problems continue will be higher. The last thing the WNBA needs is an army of angry fans deserting it.
Joseph Varghese
(2470 Articles Published)