After Game 5 loss, Dream coach Karl Smesko calls WNBA Finals officiating ridiculous; Angel Reese questions refs
Smesko defends Reese
After Atlanta’s Game 5 loss Monday, head coach Karl Smesko praised the Valkyries’ defense but argued that officials did not call enough contact against Angel Reese. Smesko said the contact Reese faced was “just ridiculous,” according to Smesko. He said he wanted to have her back after the game.
Reese contributes on boards
Reese scored seven points in Game 5 and grabbed 15 rebounds. The article says she struggled offensively, while still making a substantial contribution on the boards. Reese is the league’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year, according to the report.
Atlanta faces elimination
The 64-55 defeat gave the Golden State Valkyries a 3-2 series lead and put the Dream on the brink of elimination. The series moves back to Atlanta for Game 6 on Thursday. The game is part of the 2026 WNBA Finals.
Key points
- The Golden State Valkyries beat Atlanta 64-55 in Game 5.
- Karl Smesko criticized the amount of contact called against Angel Reese.
- Reese had seven points and 15 rebounds.
- Atlanta returns home Thursday for Game 6, trailing 3-2.