Atlanta Dream head coach Karl Smesko publicly defended forward Angel Reese following the team’s 64-55 loss to the Golden State Valkyries in Game 5 of the 2026 WNBA Finals. Smesko argued that officials allowed an unreasonable amount of contact against Reese, who also earned the league’s Defensive Player of the Year honor.
“I give the Valkyries credit for playing good defense, they’re known for their defense,” Smesko said. “But I want to have Angel’s back here. The contact on Angel compared to everybody else is just ridiculous. Just ridiculous.” He added that at the championship level, “you can’t be at this level and make that many mistakes.”
Reese’s perspective on the physical play
Reese echoed her coach’s concerns, noting that the physicality she faced in the finals was not new. “I am still trying to figure out how to play through the physicality,” she said, referencing the four personal fouls she was called for in Game 5. “I’m kind of used to it because this was happening throughout the season, so I have to just continue to play through it. But honestly, for my teammates, when they’re getting slapped to the floor or knocked off, it’s a little frustrating.”
She also highlighted a perceived inconsistency in foul calls. “I know I have the mismatch, especially talking about matchups. So when I do switch on the post and I’m a lot stronger than the opponent, I should be able to turn and they’re calling an offensive foul. But when I’m getting pushed before that, it’s frustrating to me,” Reese explained.
Game 5 recap and upcoming Game 6
Reese finished Game 5 with seven points and 15 rebounds, while the Dream attempted just 14 free throws—the fewest in a postseason game this year. The Valkyries’ 64 points marked the lowest total by a team that won a WNBA Finals game since 2005.
Golden State’s victory pushes the Dream to the brink of elimination, but the series shifts back to Atlanta for Game 6 on Thursday at State Farm Arena. The game is slated to tip off at 12:30 p.m. ET, with the NBA schedule adjusted to accommodate both the WNBA and the Atlanta Hawks.
Other voices on the court
Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase defended the physical nature of the contest, saying both teams are “defensive‑minded” and that physical play is expected in a championship series. “I ain’t shocked about this. You have an Atlanta Dream team that’s well‑coached, that have dogs, same as us,” she remarked.
The league has previously disciplined coaches for public criticism of officials. Last season, Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon and Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White each received $1,000 fines for comments made during the semifinals. Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was suspended for one game after her remarks about officiating.
Looking ahead
Smesko expressed hope that fans will be able to watch the decisive game despite work schedules. “I hope everyone gets to see it somehow and I know for some people it’s not realistic — they have jobs and won’t be able to make it,” he said. “I’m disappointed for that, but I’m hopeful as many people can see the game as possible.”
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
