Alyssa Thomas suspended one game for putting fist into Caitlin Clark's throat

Key Points:

• Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark left Wednesday's 111-109 loss to the Phoenix Mercury with a back injury following a series of controversial incidents, including a play where Alyssa Thomas struck Clark's neck with her fist.
• The WNBA reviewed the incident postgame and issued Thomas a Flagrant Foul 2 penalty and a one-game suspension for "recklessly making contact" with Clark's throat area.
• Fever president Kelly Krauskopf emphasized player safety and appreciated the league's action, while coach Stephanie White strongly condemned Thomas' conduct and criticized the officiating for missed calls during the game.
• Clark, who has battled back issues all season, exited the game early and ended her streak of six consecutive games with at least 20 points and five assists; her recovery timeline remains uncertain.
• The physicality between the Fever and Mercury has been intense in recent matchups, with multiple technical fouls and ejections, and Fever coach White called for more consistent officiating to protect players like Clark.