Cheryl Reeve, head coach of the Minnesota Lynx, was suspended following an intense altercation with officials during the team’s Game 3 defeat.
In Game 4 of the WNBA semifinals, the Minnesota Lynx will be missing their fearless leader. Following her emotional ejection during the Lynx’s Game 3 loss, which sent Target Center into a frenzy and spurred a league-wide discussion about officiating standards, longtime head coach and franchise spokesperson Cheryl Reeve received a one-game suspension.
Tensions boiled over late in the fourth quarter, which is when Reeve had his breakdown. Napheesa Collier’s controversial no-call on a driving layup attempt appeared to be the tipping point for the Lynx, who were behind by single digits. Reeve yelled at the officiating crew and made wild gestures as he rushed onto the court. She was removed from the game shortly after receiving consecutive technical fouls.
As Reeve waved to fans as she left, the initially stunned audience erupted in cheers. Before the league’s decision was made public, Reeve declared afterwards, “I stand by fighting for my players.” However, I am also aware that there is a limit. I went over it.
After quickly assessing the circumstances, the league office issued a fine and a one-game suspension early on Saturday morning. It’s not the first time a coach has been suspended during the postseason, but it’s a unique move that highlights how intense this series has gotten.
The timing couldn’t be worse for Minnesota. The Lynx, who are now 2-1 in the series, will be eliminated without their head coach present. Both players and fans are excited about the news that assistant coach Katie Smith will take over as head coach for Game 4. Collier remarked, “Katie has been here and knows us.” “We must unite and support one another.”
On social media, the incident has generated a lot of discussion. While some have praised Reeve for standing up for her team, others have claimed that her actions went too far at a crucial point. One fan wrote on X, “You can’t lose your cool like that in the playoffs.” “But man, it demonstrates her level of concern.”
Emotions are undoubtedly running high as the series returns to Minnesota. The Lynx must use that energy to play a focused, physical game if they hope to force a decisive Game 5. Reeve will undoubtedly be the Twin Cities’ most ardent spectator since she will be watching from home. Monday night marks the start of Game 4, and everyone will be watching to see how the Lynx react without their flamboyant leader.
