"The WNBA wants fans to believe the league is in its golden era. Sold-out arenas. Surging TV ratings. A host of stars turning into household names. All of it culminated in the league's best year by far. But what good is the momentum if the league can't protect the very players driving it? Night after night this season, games have been marred by erratic officiating and the players' pleas for change have been met with shrugs from the league office."
"Some fans rolled their eyes at the first-year head coach. Argued that this is the way the league is. But after the league's last week, Nakase doesn't look like a coach making excuses anymore. She looks like a prophet the league refused to listen to. Following their semifinal loss to the Phoenix Mercury, Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier ripped the league and commissioner Cathy Engelbert on Tuesday, saying We have the worst leadership in the world."
The WNBA recorded record interest with sold-out arenas, rising TV ratings, and growing star recognition. Games this season were repeatedly affected by inconsistent and erratic officiating, prompting coaches and players to raise safety concerns. Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase warned that inconsistent calls harm the product and endanger players. Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier criticized league leadership, calling out commissioner Cathy Engelbert as players voiced frustration. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve condemned officiating after Napheesa Collier's ankle injury on a controversial no-call and said allowing excessive physicality increases injuries and fights. The league's response to these complaints has been perceived as insufficient amid looming CBA talks.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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