- The WNBA has suspended forward Alyssa Thomas after she hit Caitlin Clark in the throat with her fist during a game.
- The WNBA issued a Flagrant Foul 2 penalty to Thomas following the incident.
- Alyssa Thomas will serve her suspension on Saturday when the Mercury visit the Toronto Tempo.
- The game officials did not call a foul in the moment, leading to anger from Fever coach Stephanie White.
- Stephanie White criticized the officiating, stating, 'We have a generational talent and a superstar who had two cheap shots right there that weren’t called.'
- Officials have been instructed this season to practice consistent enforcement of existing league rules regarding freedom of movement.
The WNBA has suspended Alyssa Thomas for a Flagrant Foul 2 after a throat hit on Caitlin Clark during a game. The incident, which went unpenalized by officials, has sparked outrage from Fever coach Stephanie White, who criticized the lack of calls on what she termed 'cheap shots.'12345
White expressed her frustration, stating, 'We have a generational talent and a superstar who had two cheap shots right there that weren’t called.' The league has emphasized consistent enforcement of rules this season, particularly regarding player safety and freedom of movement.
Thomas, who recorded 24 points and eight rebounds in the game prior to the incident, will serve her suspension on Saturday when the Mercury visit the Toronto Tempo. The WNBA's decision reflects its commitment to maintaining a safe playing environment and addressing violent conduct on the court.
The incident raises questions about officiating standards and player protection in the league, as the WNBA aims to uphold its rules and ensure fair play among its athletes.
“Alyssa Thomas has been suspended by the WNBA for hitting Caitlin Clark in the throat during a game. The suspension will take effect when the Mercury face the Toronto Tempo.”
The Guardian
