Tibbetts, furious: Ejection in WNBA Finals for claims, Unfair?

Nate Tibbetts, Mercury Coach, Ejected in WNBA Finals

Phoenix Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts was ejected in Game 4 of the WNBA Finals after receiving two technical fouls. The incident marked a milestone in league history, becoming the first coach to be ejected in a Finals game. Tibbetts, visibly bewildered, received the first technical foul for protesting a referee’s decision. The coach expressed his frustration with the phrase “That’s terrible.” Subsequently, after approaching the referee and repeating the phrase, he received the second technical, which resulted in his automatic ejection.

For me, it’s simply embarrassing. I’m very sorry to have been ejected. I’ve been in this game a long time. I think it’s one of the weakest double technicals I’ve ever seen. I didn’t even know I’d been called for the second one, to be completely honest. I just don’t understand it.

Nate Tibbetts

In addition to Tibbetts, Mercury players Kahleah Copper and DeWanna Bonner also received technical fouls during the fourth quarter. Bonner was sanctioned for reacting to an officiating decision and Copper for using inappropriate language and aggressively approaching the referee. Tibbetts pointed out the disparity in free throws between the Mercury and the Aces as a key point of the game. The Aces attempted 35 free throws compared to the Mercury’s 19, with A’ja Wilson leading with 19 free throws. Tibbetts emphasized the need for greater consistency in officiating, an opinion shared by Alyssa Thomas. Both highlighted that officiating must evolve with the growth of the league.

Despite the challenges, the Mercury did not attribute their defeat to the refereeing, but to the 26 points allowed from 18 turnovers. Copper highlighted the team’s ability to overcome adversity, recalling previous comebacks in the playoffs. In Game 4, the Mercury cut a 20-point deficit to six, demonstrating their fighting spirit and determination.