Aces tie series vs Fever: Physical and controversial game in the WNBA

Hammon Criticizes “Out of Control” Physics in WNBA Semifinals Series

Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon has expressed her concern about the physical intensity in the semi-final series against the Indiana Fever, calling it “out of control” after the Aces’ victory in Game 2, which tied the series at 1-1.

You can push and grab a receiver in the NFL for the first five yards, but in the WNBA it can be done across the entire court. With two hands, it should be an automatic foul. There is no freedom of movement, and I’m not saying we don’t foul, but it’s out of control.

Becky Hammon

In Game 2, 41 fouls were called, including 16 in the third quarter, and 27 in Game 1. The Aces shot 21 free throws on Tuesday, compared to the Fever’s 15.

Hammon previously criticized the first-round series between Fever and Atlanta Dream, describing it as a “football game.” Fever coach Stephanie White also expressed her concern about the officiating in Game 2, though for different reasons.

It’s difficult for us to find fluidity when a foul is called every 10 seconds. We can’t run up and down the court, and that’s a challenge.

Stephanie White

The players from both teams talked about the physical nature of the playoffs. Lexie Hull of Indiana, who scored 15 points, commented that she has felt the series has been very physical. NaLyssa Smith of Las Vegas, who scored 18 points, highlighted the need to match the energy in each game.

The Aces increased their intensity to win a physical Game 2, in which 41 fouls were called.After a disappointing Game 1, Hammon urged her players to be more aggressive in Game 2, and the Aces managed to dominate the game from the first half. A’ja Wilson led the Aces with 25 points, 9 rebounds, 5 steals, and 2 blocks. Wilson, who recently won her fourth MVP award, said she was most ashamed of the team’s performance in Game 1. White felt that her team reacted passively to the Aces’ increased intensity. The Fever had 41% field goal shooting and 22 turnovers. The series moves to Indianapolis for Games 3 and 4 on Friday and Sunday.