Phoenix Mercury All-Star Alyssa Thomas has been suspended for one game by the WNBA for a "reckless" and "non-basketball act" after punching Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark in the throat. The incident occurred during a loose-ball scramble on Wednesday night. Referees did not call the foul during the game, but a viral video clip of the play led to league review and disciplinary action.
The league's decision comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the physical treatment Clark has faced from opponents since her rookie season in 2024. Indiana Fever Head Coach Stephanie White described the action as "absolutely unacceptable" and "egregious and utterly disrespectful," adding that the punch was "crazy" and "dangerous."
Fever President Kelly Krauskopf issued a statement supporting the suspension, emphasizing that "player safety should be paramount in our league."
Thomas, who has played with torn labrums in both shoulders, has adapted her playing style. Due to her shoulder injuries, she cannot perform a traditional jump shot and instead relies on driving aggressively into defenses and absorbing contact near the basket. This physical approach has contributed to her success, earning her six All-Star selections and three First-Team All-WNBA honors.
In a 2019 interview, Thomas stated that if she hadn't pursued basketball, she would have considered a career in combat sports like boxing or MMA. She also mentioned an early interest in dentistry.
Her upbringing was characterized by competitive parenting, with her mother, Tina, emphasizing the importance of fighting for what one wants. Thomas recalled that her parents did not let her win during board games like Candyland, a parenting style noted as similar to that used by the father of baseball legend Derek Jeter.