NBA Commissioner Adam Silver reportedly urged WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert to suspend Alyssa Thomas for a flagrant foul on Caitlin Clark, a decision Engelbert was initially hesitant to make, according to a report by the Sports Business Journal.
Engelbert was reportedly concerned that suspending Thomas for an incident not immediately called on the court would be too severe a penalty. However, Silver argued that evidence supported a flagrant foul and pressed for the suspension.
The WNBA has stated that the report is "absolutely false." Neither the NBA nor the WNBA immediately responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.
Thomas was ultimately given a one-game suspension and a Flagrant 2 foul after a league review following the incident. The foul occurred when Thomas made contact with Clark's throat.
Former WNBA All-Star Katie Douglas has highlighted the increasing physicality Clark faces in the league, differentiating between fouls and normal contact. Her comments come amid calls from House Republicans for the WNBA to intervene and protect Clark.
A group of lawmakers, led by Rep. Marlin Stutzman, R-Ind., wrote to Engelbert expressing concern over what they described as "repeated acts of unnecessary physical hostility and violence" directed at Clark. The letter urged the league to implement stronger protective measures, stating that the "face of your league" is subject to such actions and that the league has a responsibility to ensure players compete in a "safe and professional environment."
Clark herself has called for the WNBA to improve player protection both on and off the court. Following the incident with Thomas, Thomas stated she received death threats.
According to the Sports Business Journal report, the WNBA operated under standard protocols for potential flagrant fouls. The report also suggested that Engelbert aimed to avoid showing favoritism toward Clark due to her popularity while also trying to appease players who felt overshadowed by her. The outlet noted that Engelbert had not attended an Indiana Fever game since Clark was drafted.
Silver has indicated ongoing discussions regarding Engelbert's role in the WNBA, while acknowledging her efforts and the league's progress. "I think Cathy continues to do a strong job building that league," Silver told reporters Tuesday, referencing "tremendous progress."