Indiana Fever head coach Stephanie White didn’t hold back after her team’s nail-biting 81–80 loss to the Dallas Wings. In a rare, unfiltered postgame interview, White openly criticized what she described as a “double standard” in WNBA officiating — and fans across the league are taking sides.
Postgame press conferences often deliver soundbites, but White’s remarks went beyond the usual coach-speak. Her frustration was palpable as she named names, saying that Kelsey Mitchell is “held or chucked on every possession” without a whistle, and that Aliyah Boston is “the worst officiated post player in the league.”
The game’s closing minutes saw several questionable non-calls, including heavy contact on Boston inside the paint and Mitchell being bumped off-ball. Meanwhile, Dallas seemed to benefit from touch fouls on the perimeter, including a late whistle in Paige Bueckers’ favor that had Fever fans fuming.
Social media exploded with support for White’s comments. Hashtags like #LetAliyahPlay and #FreeKelsey began trending among Fever faithful. Many argued that Boston’s size and strength work against her, as referees allow more physical play under the assumption she can handle it.
This isn’t the first time officiating has been a hot topic in the WNBA. Players like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart have previously voiced concerns about consistency. White’s public stance could spark renewed conversations about training, accountability, and transparency among referees.
The Fever are in the thick of a playoff push, and every call matters. White’s willingness to challenge the league could either draw more attention to her team’s treatment — or risk fines and further scrutiny. Either way, her comments have added extra fire to an already intense stretch of the season.
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