Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star, has been advised to consider leaving the WNBA due to persistent rough treatment from opponents. The suggestion comes after Clark was allegedly punched in the throat by Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury during a recent game. This incident follows a pattern of physical play directed at Clark, which has been a notable aspect of her rookie season since entering the league in 2024.
Boomer Esiason, a former NFL MVP and current sports radio host, stated that if he were in Clark's position, he would explore playing internationally. "If I were Caitlin Clark, I would seriously consider going to play overseas somewhere and get the royal treatment and get real money," Esiason said. He attributed the rough play to "petty jealousy" and suggested that Clark, as a "straight white basketball player," is not receiving adequate respect within the league.
The incident involving Thomas has drawn significant criticism on social media. Video replays appear to show Thomas striking Clark in the throat with a closed fist while Clark was on the floor. Thomas also reportedly kneed Clark in the groin during the same sequence. Despite the visibility of the alleged infractions, referees did not call a foul on the play. Fever coach Stephanie White expressed her disapproval, stating, "It was egregious and clearly disrespectful. The fact that it was a no-call... You got to call it."
Adding to the team's concerns, Clark left the Fever's 111-109 loss to Phoenix with a back injury during the second half. She has been managing a back issue this season and appeared to aggravate it in the second quarter after being fouled while shooting a three-pointer. She did not return to the game after leaving in the third quarter.
This is not the first contentious game between the Fever and the Mercury. Their previous matchup on Monday resulted in six technical fouls and one ejection. Clark herself received her fifth technical foul in that game, a call the team is petitioning to have rescinded.
Clark's arrival in the WNBA in 2024 has been credited with significantly boosting the league's popularity and financial performance. However, the ongoing physical altercations have raised questions about player safety and league officiating.