What’s going on with the W? The 2025 season is off to a shocking and fiery start, as we have witnessed two altercations in two days. First, it was Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s first meeting after an off-season filled with denying their rivalry, and now it’s Mabrey and Austin in the Sun vs Mystics game. It looks like every player is filled with excitement and energy, and we’re all for it!

In the Washington Mystics vs Connecticut Sun game, Marina Mabrey got into a tussle with Mystics forward Shakira Austin, and both players walked away with technical fouls. But how exactly did it all go down? Well, Austin actually gave a shove to Sun rookie Kariata Diaby during a possession in the post. Considering her fierce nature and strong veteran presence in the Connecticut locker room, Mabrey did not let that slide.

After all, how could she? Her college teammate, Lindsay Allen, described her fiery temperament in very few, but accurate words. “Very, very strong-willed, a bit stubborn, but super passionate and just loves basketball.” And we agree! The veteran loves the game, and she loves to compete with her heart on her sleeve. We’ve seen her go toe-to-toe with DiJonai Carrington before, and let us tell you–Marina Mabrey is not scared of anything or anyone!

She got into Austin’s face, and things seemed a little heated. The specific words that were exchanged are unknown, but Mabrey made it clear that she didn’t like Austin’s actions. The Mystics forward, only making matters worse, shoved Mabrey and walked away. This confrontation drew the eyes of many spectators and analysts. Everyone had their own views about it, but there seemed to be one lingering question: Was giving Mabrey a technical the right call?

Well, the WNBA community doesn’t seem to think so. What exactly is on their minds? Let’s find out!

“Bogus tech”: Fans react to the refereeing around Marina Mabrey controversy

Let’s be honest, the refs have a very tough job. They have to make calls in real time, de-escalate situations, and make sure the game is running smoothly. But during the Mystics v Sun game, one of their calls might have gone awry! We are, after all, talking about the Mabrey-Austin conflict. Even though the referees stepped in at the right time, their reaction to the situation caught WNBA fans off guard.

And of course, social media went wild after the altercation! Even though Marina Mabrey was quite heated during the interaction with the Mystics forward, the WNBA community doesn’t feel as though her actions warrant a technical foul. “Bogus tech on Marina Mabrey. Go ahead and drop your cashapp, Chef. I got 5 on it.” One fan said on X, and the sentiment was quite common! “Why a tech to Marina Mabrey ?” Another user agreed.

After all, what Mabrey did was expected of any vet in the Sun locker room. Austin’s shove was completely unwarranted, and no veteran would be willing to let that slide. And fans agreed! “It’s surprising saying this, but I don’t think Marina Mabrey deserved a tech for standing up for her rook,” one user said on X, while another was outraged and called for it to be rescinded! “HOW DID MARINA MABREY GET A TECH FOR THAT??? @WNBA RESCIND THAT.”

Even though her career trajectory has been quite unstable, she is the team’s most senior player, and the locker room loves her energy! Apparently, so do most fans! “God I love Marina Mabrey. Also a tech for that is fucking wild.” A fan said on social media, praising the vet.

Although Mabrey has gotten endless praise from fans for her protective nature, it was ultimately Shakira Austin who got the last laugh. The Mystics outplayed the Sun in a nail-biting fourth quarter to secure the win. It will be interesting to see how Connecticut goes from here, but Mabrey’s actions have certainly done a lot to help the team chemistry.