The Golden State Valkyries claimed the opening victory of the WNBA Finals, but two contentious plays involving Angel Reese have become a major talking point following the Atlanta Dream's 68-64 defeat.
Reese entered the championship series hoping to help Atlanta secure its first WNBA title, having played an important role in the team's unbeaten run through the earlier playoff rounds.
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However, the three-time All-Star found herself facing criticism after making contact with two Golden State players during a physical second half at Chase Center.
The incidents involving Gabby Williams and Veronica Burton prompted allegations that the referees failed to adequately penalize Reese, although the available accounts differ on whether an offensive foul was assessed during the first play.
Reese elbow to Williams sparks controversy
The first disputed incident occurred during the third quarter when Williams challenged Reese for possession as the Atlanta forward attempted to protect the basketball.
Reese turned while battling for control, and her elbow struck Williams in the face, prompting an immediate reaction from viewers following the game.
A separate incident followed when Reese attempted to contest a layup by Burton, approaching from behind before making contact with the guard's face.
WNBA reporter Robin Lundberg criticized the officiating after watching the sequences, suggesting that both incidents warranted penalties.
"Refs let Angel Reese get away with two blatant fouls, no call," Lundberg wrote on X.
His assessment generated further discussion about the standard of officiating during the postseason, particularly when physical contact involves players attempting to protect possession or challenge shots.
Fans question officials after controversial plays
Several viewers expressed frustration on social media, arguing that Reese had received favorable treatment during the game.
"100%. She is the Draymond of the WNBA," one fan wrote, comparing her physical style to that of NBA forward Draymond Green.
Another supporter claimed Reese had repeatedly avoided consequences for excessive contact, although no evidence was presented to establish preferential treatment by officials.
The latest controversy follows criticism surrounding Atlanta's semifinal series against the New York Liberty, when Reese made contact with Breanna Stewart during another physical sequence.
Officials reviewed that incident and determined there had been no hostile act, allowing play to continue without additional punishment.
Sophie Cunningham also previously questioned why Reese avoided a technical foul following a confrontation with Sabrina Ionescu.
Reese accepts responsibility after Game 1 defeat
Despite the attention surrounding her defensive play, Reese's offensive performance also became a significant storyline in Atlanta's opening defeat.
She finished with 14 points and 12 rebounds but failed to score after halftime, having initially established herself as one of the game's most influential players.
Williams led Golden State with 26 points, while Allisha Gray contributed 19 for Atlanta despite struggling with her shooting efficiency.
Asked whether Golden State's defensive adjustments had restricted her second-half production, Reese declined to credit the opposition.
"I don't think they really did anything," she said following the game. "I wasn't aggressive enough with the ball and tryna (sic) get to my spots. So, I am definitely going to do a better job of that next game."
Atlanta will return to Chase Center for Game 2 on Monday, October 19, seeking to level the series and avoid falling into a two-game deficit.