Aces tie series vs. Fever after blowout; Hammon criticizes physicality

Hammon Criticizes Game Physics in Aces vs. Fever Series

Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon has expressed concern about the physical intensity in the semi-final series against the Indiana Fever. After Las Vegas’ victory in the second game, Hammon described the situation as “out of control”.

“You can grab an open receiver in the NFL for the first five yards, but in the W you can do it in half court,” Hammon said. “Putting both hands on someone like that should be an automatic foul. There is no freedom of movement, there is no freedom. And I’m not saying we don’t commit fouls, I’m not saying that. I’m saying it’s out of control.”

Becky Hammon

In the second game, 41 fouls were called, including 16 in the third quarter. Hammon had previously criticized the first-round series between the Fever and the Atlanta Dream, describing it as a “football game”.

Fever coach Stephanie White also expressed her frustration with the pace of the game due to the constant fouls.

“It’s difficult for us to find a flow when a foul is called every 10 seconds,” White said. “It really is, and when they’re at the free throw line, we can’t get up and down the court, and that’s a challenge.

Stephanie White

The players from both teams commented on the physical nature of the playoffs. Lexie Hull, from Indiana, commented that the game feels physical in every match and that she has felt more physical contact in this series. NaLyssa Smith, from Las Vegas, highlighted the need to match the energy in every playoff game.

After a disappointing first game, Hammon urged her players to be more aggressive in the second game. A’ja Wilson led the Aces with 25 points, 9 rebounds, 5 steals, and 2 blocks. Wilson, winner of her fourth MVP award, admitted that the team’s performance in the first game was more embarrassing. White felt that her team reacted passively to the Aces’ intensity. Kelsey Mitchell, Fever’s top scorer, was limited to 13 points. The series moves to Indianapolis for games 3 and 4.