WNBA: League Denies Link Between Injuries and Officiating, Despite Criticism

Controversy in the WNBA: Criticism of Physics and Refereeing

Amid growing criticism of the level of physical play this season, WNBA sources revealed that league data does not show a correlation between recent playoff injuries and referee decisions. WNBA’s officiating operations staff analyzes data throughout the season to address what is described as “legitimate criticisms” and point out areas for improvement for referees. However, this process found no evidence to support the accusations that officiating errors have led to more injuries. The controversy has escalated with strong statements from renowned players and coaches, who demand that the league take action against what they consider deficient refereeing. Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was suspended after requesting changes in the league’s direction regarding the hiring and assignment of referees. Reeve will serve his suspension during Game 4 of the Lynx’s semifinal series against the Phoenix Mercury.

It was a “bad practice” for the WNBA to assign the three referees who worked in Game 3, questioning their credentials after their star player, Napheesa Collier, was injured in the final seconds.

Cheryl Reeve

The incident in which Collier was injured involved a collision with Phoenix’s Alyssa Thomas, following a steal, with no foul called. Becky Hammon, coach of the Las Vegas Aces, also supported Reeve’s statements, after criticizing the refereeing before Game 1 of their semifinal series against the Indiana Fever.

She didn’t lie, she told the truth.

Becky Hammon

The same officiating crew that officiated Game 3 in Phoenix was assigned to Game 4 in Indiana. Hammon had previously expressed that the level of physical play allowed by WNBA referees would not be tolerated in any other league. Fever coach Stephanie White agreed with Reeve, pointing out the need to improve officiating in the league.

Every part of our league has improved, and that part has been left behind, for whatever reason.

Stephanie White

The league uses a three-stage process to evaluate its referees, including an internal review, an evaluation by an independent panel, and a system for coaches to submit feedback after each game. Mid-season and end-of-season reviews are also conducted. The WNBA does not sanction referees for individual errors, but rather evaluates their overall performance throughout the season. Action is only taken if a consistent pattern of errors is detected.