The WNBA has changed its approach to officating in a major way this season. Players noticed the massive change in how games were called as early as the preseason, with referees employing a whistle that more closely reflected the way an offensive player’s “freedom of movement” is protected in the NBA.
The change has led to a starch increase in the number of fouls called per game, and naturally the amount of free throws attempted. Many players have lamented the new whistle, feeling as if the constant whistles have come at the expense of a game’s natural rhythm.
Not everyone feels this way, however. After Sunday’s win over the Seattle Storm, Indiana Fever point guard Caitlin Clark made it clear that she is a fan of the way games have been called this season.
“I think it makes the game of basketball better, personally,” Clark said in her post game presser after going 9-for-9 from the free throw line. “And I know people’s opinions are going to be different across the league, and I understand that.
“And I think for our team, defensively, we need to adjust. We foul all the time. And Steph’s told us in the locker room, like, they’re fouls.”
Clark finished by crediting the job the game officials have done through the first handful of games this season.
“It does get a little physical sometimes, so I think there’s a fine balance and players will figure it out. But overall, I think the refs have done a really good job. So, I gotta give credit to them too. That was really nice.”
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.