Why the WNBA Commissioner's Dress Sparked Controversy

The 2024 WNBA season was a hit, with record-breaking attendance and viewership. The finale, a thrilling series between the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx, ended with the Liberty winning in overtime. However, the game's controversial calls in favor of New York left a bad taste in many people's mouths. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, who also coached Team USA to an Olympic gold, criticized the refs, claiming the game was "stolen" due to questionable calls. The refs missed several fouls on Minnesota players and gave New York a large free throw advantage. The controversy intensified when WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert presented the trophy wearing a dress featuring the New York City skyline.

Many saw this as bias, questioning if the league wanted New York to win. The WNBA deleted a tweet showing Engelbert's dress, and the dress sparked criticism on social media. Some even compared it to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell showing favoritism in a hypothetical Super Bowl situation. The WNBA Players Association opted out of the collective bargaining agreement, hinting at a potential labor dispute. Despite the controversies, interest in women's basketball continues to rise, with viewership nearly quadrupling in two years.

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