When Minnesota coach Cheryl Reeve complained about the refereeing on Sunday night, she claimed the WNBA championship was “stolen” from the Lynx. After a contested foul gave Breanna Stewart two free throws with 5.2 seconds left in regulation, the New York Liberty defeated the Lynx 67-62 in overtime in Game 5.
Reeve, who coached the U.S. women to an Olympic gold medal this summer in Paris and guided the Lynx to four WNBA titles, said that she knew her complaints would make headlines. The Lynx made 7 of 8 free throws, while the Liberty made 25.
Cheryl Reeve goes off on officials
WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and All-Star forward Napheesa Collier fouled out as Minnesota was assessed for 21 fouls compared to New York’s 17. Cheryl Reeve said : “We know we could have done some things, right, but you shouldn’t have to overcome to that extent,” “This s– ain’t that hard. Officiating is not that hard.” “Bring it on,” “because that s– was stolen from us.” “This sucks,””This is for a championship, for both teams. Let them decide it. What contact is legal should be the same for both teams.”
Reeve was especially upset about the foul on Alanna Smith when Minnesota was ahead 60-58. Before any contact occurred, Stewart seemed to take the shot after pulling into the lane. After a video review, the call was upheld despite the Lynx’s objection.
