Breanna Stewart says she was straight up told her team had no reset timeout left, right before the New York Liberty dropped a heartbreaking 101-98 overtime loss to the Atlanta Dream in Game 2 of the semifinals. Now, the WNBA is calling it a “misunderstanding,” and the Liberty are staring down the barrel of an 0-2 series deficit with their postseason on the line.
Stewart’s Claim and the OT Heartbreak
This wasn’t just any loss either; the Liberty conceded the game in overtime without even taking that timeout, if they had it. Stewart, clearly frustrated after the game, told reporters that the referees had informed her there was no option for a reset. Imagine that: thinking you’re out of options, only to find out later you might have had a crucial play in your back pocket. Video footage even showed Stewart talking to official Kevin Fahy with just 4.3 seconds left in OT, right before Angel Reese was at the free-throw line, and then turning to talk to her own bench. It looked like a critical moment, and it played out with the Liberty ultimately losing the game without using a potential lifeline.
WNBA’s Take: Just a “Misunderstanding”?
The WNBA, though? They are calling it a “misunderstanding.” A spokesperson told ESPN’s Alexa Philippou that while it was “clear on video and audio” Stewart did ask Fahy about the timeout, there were “multiple overlapping conversations and non-verbal exchanges between the referees, game participants, and also Stewart with Liberty bench personnel.” Basically, they are saying it was chaotic, leading to confusion among everyone involved. The league did say their refs “can certainly handle these interactions better” and they’ve been given feedback, but don’t expect any further action on this situation at this time. So, for the Liberty, it’s not going to change that Game 2 outcome.
So, the Liberty are now down 0-2 in the series. Their postseason is literally on the line. Game 3 tips off Friday night in New York, and it’s do or die for them. Can they overcome this controversial loss and turn things around, or will this “misunderstanding” be the moment their season comes to an end? You know everyone will be watching that one closely.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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