Alyssa Thomas' flagrant on Caitlin Clark 'blown out of proportion'
Los Angeles Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The WNBA suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for one game after a review showed her fist made contact with Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark’s throat during a recent game, an incident initially missed by officials.
- The altercation occurred during the second quarter of the Mercury's 111-109 win over the Fever, with no foul called at the time; the league classified Thomas’ action as a "non-basketball act" and imposed a $1,000 fine alongside the suspension.
- Fever head coach Stephanie White condemned the incident as a "cheap shot" and criticized the officiating for inconsistency, highlighting concerns about fair treatment of Clark.
- Former players and analysts offered differing views, with some suggesting the contact was unintentional and emphasizing the physical nature of the WNBA, while others noted the importance of protecting players and consistent officiating.
- Thomas’ suspension will be served in the Mercury’s upcoming game against the Toronto Tempo, marking her first-ever suspension in the league.
