Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark experienced a contentious moment during her team's game against the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday night, when she was shoved in the neck by Mercury player Alyssa Thomas. The foul went uncalled by officials despite video evidence appearing to show the contact.
During the game in Indianapolis, Clark drove to the basket and lost her footing while three Mercury players attempted to strip the ball. As the ball was lost, Thomas made contact with Clark, shoving her in the neck before stepping over her. An official was positioned on the baseline during the play, but no whistle was blown.
The incident drew criticism on social media, with observers questioning the officiating. "What are we even doing here? Brutal cheap shot," tweeted Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. Another user commented, "The fact that Alyssa Thomas is allowed to commit literal assault on a basketball court without receiving a common foul is beyond criminal. This league is rigged."
Clark has been involved in several physically contested plays this season. The WNBA is also currently reviewing a technical foul that Clark received during a previous game against the Mercury. The technical was assessed for