Dallas Wings head coach Jose Fernandez made waves for calling out his players after a close loss last week. His blunt postgame comments about selfishness in the locker room sparked debate, but the team responded with a commanding win. However, public criticism can cut both ways, as recent examples show.
The Risk of Public Criticism
After a narrow loss to the Minnesota Lynx, Fernandez told reporters: "It's real talk, and it's accountability. There's selfishness in this locker room." While some fans questioned the timing, players like Maddy Siegrist voiced support, and the Wings delivered a 23-point win over the Washington Mystics with a season-high 30 assists.
But not all such moments end well. University of Tennessee coach Kim Caldwell said her team "will just quit on you" after a 43-point loss; they lost eight of their last nine games. Conversely, Texas coach Vic Schaefer called his team "the softest I've had in years," and they rallied to a Final Four berth.
Questions Coaches Should Ask
Before speaking negatively, coaches should consider:
- Will my team take this personally? Know your personnel. If calling them out motivates them, it may be useful. If not, keep it private.
- Will this put a bad spotlight on my team? Comments drive media narratives. Lynne Roberts inadvertently created a story about Cameron Brink's slow start, then had to backtrack.
- Do I want my team to like me? Building trust is vital, especially for a first-year coach or a team rebuilding after a tough season.
- Do I like my job? If yes, stay quiet. If not, airing grievances may hasten a departure.
Denim-on-Denim Tunnel Picks
This week's standout styles: Nneka Ogwumike's baggy pinstriped denim set, Gabby Williams' unconventional jean-wearing, and Angel Reese's jorts paired with Gucci and Hermes accessories.
Natasha Cloud on Officiating
After teammate Rickea Jackson suffered an ACL injury, Cloud criticized referees: "It's bullshit. I needed a tech intentionally because I will be damned if a player gets hurt from something controllable by the refs." The Sky won 86-79.
Must-Watch Games This Week
- Golden State Valkyries vs. New York Liberty (Thursday, 8pm ET, Amazon Prime): A rematch of last season's battles.
- Dallas Wings vs. Atlanta Dream (Friday, 7:30pm ET, ION): Both teams hungry after close losses.
This is an extract from WNBA 30, where Jordan Robinson covers the biggest stories in the league each week. Subscribe for free.
