WNBA Player Sophie Cunningham Criticizes No-Call on Angel Reese

Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham has voiced strong criticism regarding a no-call during a WNBA playoff game, asserting that Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese should have received a technical foul. The incident occurred during Game 3 of the WNBA semifinals when Reese pursued New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu after Ionescu committed an illegal screen.

On her podcast, 'No Hesitation,' Cunningham stated that Reese avoiding a technical foul and the subsequent $500 fine was "absolutely ridiculous." She argued that pursuing an opponent down the court and engaging them verbally warrants a technical foul, citing it as standard practice during the regular season. Cunningham clarified that while verbal exchanges are acceptable, Reese's actions crossed a line.

Reese's behavior occurred prior to her receiving a technical foul later in the same game for standing chest-to-chest with Jonquel Jones after blocking a shot. Cunningham found the disparity between the two calls inconsistent, describing it as "weird and inconsistent." The Fever guard acknowledged that Reese was defending her teammate but took exception to the officiating.

Two technical fouls in a single game would have resulted in Reese's ejection, potentially altering the game's outcome. Cunningham's comments highlight a broader discussion about officiating standards in the WNBA, a sentiment echoed by others, including ESPN WNBA analyst Rebecca Lobo, who also suggested a technical should have been called on Reese.

Reese currently has two technical fouls heading into the WNBA Finals. Accumulating two more during the championship series would result in a one-game suspension. Despite her criticism, Cunningham conceded that Reese's actions demonstrated support for her teammate, a quality she respects.