Angel Reese's coach rips WNBA officials after Dream loss: 'Excuse after excuse'

Angel Reese has become one of the WNBA's biggest stars, but according to Atlanta Dream head coach Karl Smesko, that spotlight is also leading to different treatment from officials. Just days after officiating surrounding Caitlin Clark dominated league-wide conversation, Smesko publicly defended Reese following Atlanta's 78-75 loss to the Golden State Valkyries on Friday night. His comments came after another frustrating evening that he believes featured inconsistent officiating involving the Dream forward.

Reese still turned in another impressive performance with 15 points, 12 rebounds and six steals, but Smesko said the postgame discussion centered on much more than the final score.

Karl Smesko says Angel Reese isn't getting the same whistle

Smesko had already voiced concerns before Friday's game, pointing to what he believes is a pattern of Reese receiving a different standard from officials.

"Sometimes she does not get the benefit of the call," Smesko said, via ESPN's Kendra Andrews.

He added that Reese is often called for travels and defensive fouls while similar plays by opponents go uncalled.

"If she shuffles a pivot foot she'll get called for the travel, but then you see much more egregious travels on the other end and there won't be anything," Smesko said. "If she is not completely vertical, it's a foul."

The Dream coach also revealed he has discussed the issue with the league, saying officials have acknowledged missing certain calls during previous conversations.

Atlanta Dream coach Karl Smesko on officiating: "I've met with the head of officials in person, over zoom, we have another meeting planned. They are talking to us and we are going through plays...At times they admit things that were missed. But at a certain point, everyone wants…

Dream coach doubles down after loss to Valkyries

Following Friday night's defeat, Smesko's frustration appeared to reach another level.

"We are a really good team, and we don't get the kind of respect we deserve from the officials," Smesko told reporters. "Some of the stuff that went on today was just bizarre... and Angel deserves more respect out there."

He continued by criticizing the explanations he has received after questionable calls.

"Some of the calls, excuse after excuse why they missed it or things like that. That's why the players get as frustrated as they do."

The comments come with Reese already carrying five technical fouls this season. She is now three technical fouls away from triggering an automatic suspension under WNBA rules, adding even more importance to every whistle she receives moving forward.

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Angel Reese continues productive first season with Atlanta

Despite the controversy, Reese continues to be one of the biggest reasons for Atlanta's strong start.

After being acquired from the Chicago Sky during the offseason, Reese has quickly become one of the Dream's most productive players. Her double-double Friday marked another standout performance in what has been an impressive campaign.

Against Golden State, Reese finished with:

• 15 points

• 12 rebounds

• Six steals

Jordin Canada led Atlanta with 23 points, while Allisha Gray added 14. Golden State countered with balanced scoring, placing five players in double figures to secure the three-point victory.

The loss dropped Atlanta to 12-6, but the Dream won't have much time to regroup. Reese and her teammates return to action Saturday night when they travel to face the Seattle Storm.

As discussions about officiating continue around the WNBA, Smesko's comments ensure the spotlight won't be leaving league officials anytime soon.

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