Smesko rips refs for 'ridiculous' missed calls on Reese in Game 5 of WNBA Finals

Atlanta Dream coach Karl Smesko expressed strong dissatisfaction with the officiating during Game 5 of the WNBA Finals, where his team lost 64-55 to the Golden State Valkyries. Smesko criticized the referees for failing to call numerous fouls against star player Angel Reese, who struggled with her shooting and was limited to seven points. He highlighted that the amount of contact Reese faced compared to other players was excessive and pointed out missed calls on both sides.

Reese echoed her coach's frustrations, noting that the physical play and inconsistent officiating have been ongoing issues throughout the season. She mentioned her challenges in adapting to the level of physicality and expressed concern for her teammates who were also subjected to rough play. Despite the loss, Smesko acknowledged the Valkyries' strong defensive performance but maintained that the officiating needed to improve. The game marked a historically low scoring night for both teams, with the Dream shooting poorly from the field.