Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier expressed her frustration with the referees following a tough 67-62 overtime loss to the Liberty in Game 5 of the WNBA Finals. Despite averaging 23.8 points in the postseason, Collier took to Instagram to share a series of photos from the season, with the last three highlighting controversial officiating calls.
The most talked-about moment was when a foul was called on Lynx center Alanna Smith while guarding Liberty star Breanna Stewart in the final seconds of regulation. This call allowed Stewart to tie the game with two free throws and ultimately send it into overtime. Additionally, Collier highlighted a non-call where she appeared to be hit in the face by Kayla Thornton while driving to the hoop, as well as a play involving Smith and Jonquel Jones.
In her Instagram post, Collier expressed her love for her team and gratitude towards the coaches, staff, and fans. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve went as far as to say that the 2024 WNBA title was “stolen” from her team due to the officiating, specifically pointing to the controversial foul call at the end of Game 5.
Following the game, many NBA stars and current and former WNBA players joined the conversation, criticizing the referees on social media. Despite the loss, the Liberty celebrated their first WNBA title and are set to have a parade in New York City.
Interestingly, both Collier and Stewart are business partners in the Unrivaled League, a 3-on-3 league they co-founded. The league is scheduled to begin in January 2025 and will run through March, providing an opportunity for both players to showcase their skills outside of the WNBA season.
