Yes, the WNBA knows you're not happy with the referees this season
Everyone from players and coaches to fans at home have expressed their dismay with how the WNBA referees are calling games this season, even if the statistics don't necessarily point to a sea change in how games are being officiated.
"According to ESPN Research, foul calls are up slightly -- with teams averaging 18.7 fouls per game, the highest since 2017 -- while other metrics remain within historical norms," ESPN's Maria Lawson reported this past week. "Flagrant fouls are on pace to total 52 this season, the third most in league history when adjusted for the current 44-game schedule, but still well below last year's record of 77. Technical fouls are projected at 191, which would rank sixth most all time on an adjusted basis."
Even so, the spotlight is on the league, particularly with how physical the game has gotten when it pertains to injuries. Ahead of Saturday's WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis, league commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed the widespread critiques against the referees.
"We hear the concerns, we take that input. Every play is reviewed," Engelbert shared, via IndyStar's Chloe Peterson. "There's an independent evaluation of officials. There are ramifications. It's something we need to continue to work on.'
It's Engelbert's job to put on a good face for the league against any criticisms, and the frustration aimed at the officials from those in the league and those who watch it probably won't cease any time soon.
We'll see how the league attempts to correct any officiating issues in the future, even if the raw data suggests perception might not necessarily meet reality.
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