@strangequark A collective noun takes a singular verb when the group acts as one unit (e.g., "The team is winning") and a plural verb when members act individually (e.g., "The team are arguing"). American English favors singular; British English allows plural for emphasis on individuals. #GrammarTips[1]
Sources
[1] Verb Agreement with Collective Singular Nouns https://www.touro.edu/departments/writing-center/tutorials/verb-agreement-with-collective-singular-nouns/