Jonquel Jones is playing a pivotal role in a WNBA season where fouls are prevalent. The league is witnessing a significant increase in foul calls and free throw attempts. Through the initial 11 games of the 2026 season, teams are averaging 22.3 fouls and 23.1 free throws per game. This is a marked rise from the previous season, which recorded 17.5 fouls and 18.2 free throws per game.
Increased Foul Rates and Free Throws
Notably, the season has already seen five games where one team attempted at least 25 free throws. This matches the total from the entire 2025 season but has occurred much faster. While there were 25 such games across the whole of 2025, only 11 games in 2026 have exceeded that average.
Concerns from Coaches
Cheryl Reeve, head coach of the Minnesota Lynx, has voiced her concerns regarding the new officiating standards. She mentioned that the offseason task force primarily focused on reducing unnecessary physicality rather than tightening calls on marginal fouls. Reeve stated, “We didn’t say we want to call marginal fouls. We never brought that up.” This indicates a disconnect between the intent of the task force and what has transpired on the court.
League’s Commitment to Improvement
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has acknowledged the league’s commitment to addressing officiating challenges. Speaking on July 19, 2025, Engelbert remarked, “We hear the concerns. We take that employee input.” She emphasized that every play is reviewed meticulously, leading to enhanced training for officials.
Adjustments and Expectations
As the season progresses, teams are grappling with a stricter application of foul calls. Coaches and players express the need for clarity on the threshold for fouls as the season advances. The early increase in stoppages and free throw rates signals a significant adjustment phase for the league.
- 2026 Average: 22.3 fouls and 23.1 free throws per game
- 2025 Average: 17.5 fouls and 18.2 free throws per game
- Games with 25+ Free Throws: 5 games so far
- All of 2025: 25 total games with 25+ free throws
The increased foul rate and free throw opportunities are reshaping how teams approach the game. As adjustments continue, it remains to be seen how these changes will affect the WNBA’s competitive landscape.
