WNBA suspends Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve 1 game for behavior and comments in playoff loss to Mercury

Key Takeaways:

• Cheryl Reeve faces a one-game suspension
• The suspension came after the Lynx’s 84-76 playoff loss to the Mercury
• Reeve’s behavior was described as “aggressively pursuing and verbally abusing” an official
• The league pointed to both conduct and post-game comments as grounds for its decision
• The news was originally published by Mankato Free Press on September 27, 2025

Background on the Incident

The Minnesota Lynx found themselves under the spotlight after a tough 84-76 playoff defeat to the Phoenix Mercury. In the aftermath, head coach Cheryl Reeve’s frustration with the officiating boiled over into a one-game suspension levied by the WNBA.

The League’s Decision

According to the league’s announcement, Reeve’s actions crossed the line of acceptable behavior. The WNBA suspended her for one game due to “aggressively pursuing and verbally abusing” an official during and after the playoff contest.

Reeve’s Conduct

Reeve’s conduct reportedly included confrontational comments and heated criticism of the officiating. The league’s statement specifically referenced the intensity of her verbal exchange with the referee, signaling that the severity of the encounter contributed to the suspension.

Impact on the Lynx

While no further details on the Lynx’s next game were provided, the suspension leaves the team without its head coach for at least one matchup. The timing comes at a critical juncture in the team’s postseason, potentially influencing both morale and on-court strategy.

Reactions and Next Steps

No additional public statements from Reeve or league officials were included in the report. For now, the Lynx must adjust to their coach’s absence, while Reeve will serve her penalty. Further updates may emerge as the postseason continues, but the league’s immediate response is clear: there is zero tolerance for aggressive behavior and verbal abuse toward officials.