Alyssa Thomas calls out WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert after receiving online threats

Key Points:

• Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas criticized the WNBA for failing to protect players after her one-game suspension for a flagrant foul on Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, citing death threats, racial slurs, and leaked addresses directed at her and teammates.
• Thomas and her partner DeWanna Bonner reported receiving threats and harassment online, with Bonner sharing evidence of these messages with team security and Phoenix police; both expressed frustration over limited communication and support from WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
• The incident involved a retroactive flagrant foul call after referees missed the play during a June 24 game, with Thomas learning of her suspension just minutes before it was publicly announced on social media.
• Despite the WNBA's "No Space For Hate" initiative, players say online harassment persists, with Thomas calling the current abuse the worst of her 13-year career and urging the league to take stronger action to protect players off the court.
• The WNBA condemned the hate and affirmed its commitment to player safety, stating that league security is working with the Phoenix Mercury, though players feel more proactive support is needed.