WNBA fans have voiced strong disapproval over the league's decision to suspend Phoenix Mercury player Alyssa Thomas for one game following an incident where she struck Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark in the throat with a closed fist. The penalty was retroactively assessed as a Flagrant Foul 2.
The play occurred during a game on Tuesday when Clark was on the ground after diving for a loose ball. Thomas also lunged for possession, and in the process, her closed fist made contact with Clark's throat. Officials on the court missed the call during the fast-paced action.
The WNBA's league office reviewed the play and announced the Flagrant Foul 2 assessment and one-game suspension on Wednesday. According to the league's statement, its office has the option to reclassify fouls or classify uncalled fouls as Flagrant, and can impose fines and suspensions.
However, many fans expressed that the punishment was insufficient given the perceived severity and potential danger of the foul. Social media commentary highlighted concerns that the league did not adequately protect one of its star players. One user on X (formerly Twitter) questioned the leniency, stating, "One of your players nearly takes out the biggest star in your league, and your response is a one-game suspension? Wow. Imagine if the roles were reversed."
Another post shared an image of the foul and commented, "This is not a good image for the WNBA or any sports event." A separate comment drew a parallel to workplace consequences: "Wow !Thats it for an assult? These are grown ass women that know better. If I throat punch someone at work I would be FIRED immediately !"
Clark's coach, Stephanie White, described the officiating decision to not call a foul during the game as "absolutely egregious and utterly disrespectful." She further stated, "The fist in the throat is crazy. It's crazy. It's dangerous."
Clark was also dealing with a separate back injury during the game, which the Fever lost to the Mercury with a final score of 111-109. The incident and subsequent suspension have ignited debate among fans and observers regarding player safety and the WNBA's disciplinary actions.