The recently concluded 2024 WNBA Finals between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx has stirred quite the controversy, particularly over officiatiang decisions during the series. The culmination of this intense matchup came during Game 5, where the Liberty narrowly triumphed 67-62, clinching their first WNBA championship. Yet, the air of celebration was overshadowed by accusations of poor officiatiang, especially from Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, who expressed her frustrations vocally following the game.
That final game was tightly contested, with the Lynx holding on to a slim two-point lead as the clock ticked down to the final seconds. A pivotal moment came when Lynx forward Alanna Smith was called for a foul on Breanna Stewart, the star player for the Liberty, as she attempted to shoot with just 5.2 seconds left on the clock. The call was contentious, to say the least, with many observers deeming the contact minimal. The game entered what would be its dramatic overtime period after Stewart successfully sank her two free throws, leveling the score.
Reeve certainly didn't hold back during her postgame press conference, where she made it clear how she felt about the officiatiang. "You know, sometimes you get away with stuff when you are physical and aggressive and they certainly did,” she remarked, highlighting her disappointment with officiatiang overall and the review process in specific. She argued, "That was not a foul. That call should have been reversed on the challenge. It’s tough to swallow. The officials need to have another party involved to help inform their decisions." The frustration stemmed from what Reeve perceived as inconsistent standards across similar plays,namely, how her team was penalized where the Liberty seemingly faced no repercussions.
While the officiatiang has dominated the narrative since the finals ended, it’s worth noting the significance of the Liberty’s victory. This was not just another win; it marked the franchise’s first title since it was established nearly three decades ago. The win culminated decades of hard work and kept the Liberty as the last of the original WNBA teams to capture the championship trophy.
During the series, both coaches voiced their concerns over the calls made by officials. Reeve called out the inconsistencies and disparities between the foul calls made against her players compared to those against the Liberty, stating, "We don’t have a teamthat whines and complains and allthat stuff. Sometimes, it probably hurts us. But you have to be consistent." Meanwhile, Liberty’s coach Sandy Brondello also voiced dissatisfaction over officiatiang earlier, particularly following Game 4, which New York lost by just two points. Yet, when asked about Reeve’s post-game statements about Game 5, Brondello shrugged them off, stating she felt the officiatiang was “pretty fair.”
The controversial foul call reverberated throughout social media, with prominent basketball figures also weighing in. Lakers superstar LeBron James called out the officials on X, declaring, "I’m sorry but,that wasn't afoul! Let the damn players dictate the outcome ofa close battledtested game." Meanwhile, Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard mirrored James’s sentiments, remarking, "Refs called this game like they knew the assignmentin the second half boy. Great game." Even former NBA player Isaiah Thomas chimed in, supportive of Reeve's view, as he expressed reservations about the officiatiang favoring the larger-market team, the Liberty. The range of responses highlighted the extensive reach and impact of officiatiang decisions, far beyond the court itself.
But apart from officiatiang issues, the finals showcased drama and excitement, drawing record viewership numbers. All five games played were thrilling encounters, with two games going to overtime and last-second shots becoming the norm rather than the exception. The season, characterized by amazing attendance and competitive spirit, culminated with spikes not only in viewership but also overall experience, as seen with star fans like filmmaker Spike Lee courtside on championship night. His presence, along with the sold-out crowd of over 18,000, reflected the growing popularity of the WNBA and women’s sports at large.
The Liberty’s win and subsequent accusations of poor officiatiang have added unique layers to what has been dubbed one of the most engaging WNBA seasons to date. While the series concluded, the conversations surrounding it are likely to continue, including discussions about how officiatiang can be improved for the league.
