Alyssa Thomas, an All-Star player for the Phoenix Mercury, has been suspended for one game following an incident where she punched Caitlin Clark in the throat during a game on June 26, 2026. The referees did not call the foul during the game, but the league office reviewed the incident after a video clip circulated on social media. The WNBA deemed Thomas's action a 'reckless' and 'non-basketball act.' Thomas, who has been playing with torn labrums in both shoulders, has adapted her playing style to rely on physicality due to her injuries. Following the incident, Indiana Fever Head Coach Stephanie White criticized Thomas's actions, stating they were unacceptable and dangerous. Fever President Kelly Krauskopf supported the league's decision to suspend Thomas, emphasizing the importance of player safety. The incident has sparked significant backlash, with various commentators expressing outrage over the punch.
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Alyssa Thomas Suspended for Punching Caitlin Clark During WNBA Game
Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury has received a one-game suspension for punching Caitlin Clark in the throat during a WNBA game. The incident, which went unnoticed by referees at the time, was reviewed by the league after a video went viral. The suspension has led to criticism from various figures within the league regarding player safety.
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Who is Alyssa Thomas? WNBA star suspended for punching Caitlin Clark in the throat
Alyssa Thomas Suspended for Punching Caitlin Clark During WNBA Game