In the high-pressure world of NCAA Women’s Basketball, where a single call can shift the momentum of a game, referees play a crucial role in determining outcomes, particularly in tightly contested matchups. During the 2024 NCAA season, several games were marked by last-minute referee decisions that had a direct impact on the final score. This article reviews key moments where officiating influenced the outcome of close NCAA women’s basketball games and explores how these calls shaped the narrative of the season.
Referees in women’s basketball face intense scrutiny, particularly when games are decided by narrow margins. With fast-paced action, split-second decisions, and physical play, officials are tasked with ensuring that the rules are enforced fairly while keeping the flow of the game intact. In close games, this balance becomes even more critical, as every call—whether a foul, traveling violation, or charge—can dramatically alter the momentum.
One of the defining features of the 2024 NCAA season was the growing trend of teams using aggressive defensive schemes, leading to more frequent fouls in the closing minutes of games. Referees often found themselves at the center of key moments, making judgment calls that swung the outcome one way or another.
In a highly anticipated matchup between perennial powerhouses UConn and South Carolina, a controversial call late in the fourth quarter significantly impacted the outcome. With South Carolina leading by one point and less than 30 seconds remaining, UConn’s star player drove to the basket and was met with physical defense in the paint. The referees called a blocking foul on South Carolina, sending UConn to the free-throw line, where they made both shots to take the lead.
The call was heavily debated, with South Carolina’s coach and fans arguing that it should have been a no-call or an offensive charge. This decision, though seemingly minor, changed the game’s outcome, as South Carolina missed a final opportunity to score and UConn held on to win by a single point. This incident highlighted the difficult position referees are often in, having to make calls in real-time that directly influence the trajectory of the game.
In a thrilling overtime game between Stanford and Iowa, instant replay became a focal point in the game’s final moments. With the score tied and less than a second remaining in overtime, Iowa inbounded the ball to their sharpshooter, who released a three-point attempt just as the buzzer sounded. Initially, the shot was called good on the floor, giving Iowa a dramatic win.
However, after a lengthy video review, officials determined that the shooter’s foot was on the line, changing the three-pointer to a two-pointer and sending the game into a second overtime, where Stanford eventually pulled out the win. This decision showcased the growing role of technology in officiating and how referees use replay to ensure accuracy in pivotal moments.
In many close games, the way referees manage fouls is crucial to the outcome. Teams in foul trouble must adjust their defensive strategies, while players who are aggressive risk fouling out, which can swing the game in favor of the opposition.
During the 2024 season, referees were often criticized for inconsistent foul calling, particularly in the post. In a matchup between LSU and Tennessee, for example, the game’s outcome was heavily influenced by foul trouble. LSU’s leading scorer fouled out with four minutes left in a tied game after receiving two quick fouls on back-to-back possessions. Tennessee capitalized on her absence, closing out the game with a decisive victory. The timing and nature of those calls sparked debates about whether the referees had too much influence in deciding the game.
In NCAA women’s basketball, referees are often thrust into the spotlight, especially in close games where their decisions can directly affect the final outcome. The 2024 season highlighted several instances where officiating played a critical role in determining the winner, whether through controversial foul calls, the use of instant replay, or managing foul trouble in tight contests. While officiating will always be subject to scrutiny, referees remain essential to ensuring fair competition and maintaining the integrity of the game. As women’s basketball continues to grow in popularity, the spotlight on officiating in close games will only intensify, with fans, players, and coaches all hoping for consistency and fairness on the court.
