The WNBA is ready for the 2026 playoffs and has released the list of referees who will officiate the games. The league posted the list on X, and it garnered backlash from fans online.
Bethany Donaphin, Head of WNBA League Operations, released a statement online.
“We are pleased to recognize this group of officials for their on-court achievements and their dedication to their craft with a selection to work the 2026 WNBA Playoffs,” Donaphin said in a statement. “Qualifying for the postseason and serving the game at this important part of the season is a goal for WNBA officials just as it is for players and coaches.”
One of the referees was Roy Gulbeyan, who has built quite a reputation among fans. This led them to voice their frustration over the selection of officials.
“He is gonna get someone killed,” a fan said.
“Most terrible ones got selected,” another fan commented.
“Keep Roy far away from the Fever!” one fan said.
More fans reacted to the referees.
“Please don’t allow Roy to officiate any ATL games,” someone commented.
“Get Roy outta here NOW,” a comment read.
“Make sure they delete all their betting apps,” one fan commented.
Gulbeyan has been an official for 28 years, the most of the ones selected to work in the postseason. In May 2025, he was widely discussed online after getting into a heated on-court verbal exchange with DiJonai Carrington, who was with the Dallas Wings at the time.
While Carrington was making her argument, Gulbeyan had a security guard step in between them. The current Chicago Sky guard called him out on X after the incident.
“security… , when i’m literally having a civil conversation is insane . mind you , he called the “sEcUrItY” over there… #Mircoagression,” she posted.
Looking at the WNBA Playoff Picture
The first round of the playoffs is set to start on Sunday. The first game will be between the Minnesota Lynx and the New York Liberty. New York had a 2-1 advantage across their three regular-season matchups.
All eyes turn to the showdown between the Las Vegas Aces and the Indiana Fever, where top MVP candidates A’ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark square off. The third playoff game will be the Atlanta Dream against the Washington Mystics.
The Golden State Valkyries will make their second straight postseason appearance and will face the Dallas Wings in a best-of-seven series.
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Edited by Reign Amurao
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