WNBA Issues One‑Game Suspension to Alyssa Thomas

On June 25, 2026, the Women’s National Basketball Association confirmed a disciplinary action against Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas. During a tightly contested game with the Indiana Fever, Thomas made contact with her fist to Caitlin Clark’s throat with 6:52 remaining in the second quarter. The league classified the incident as a non‑basketball act and assessed a Flagrant Foul 2, even though officials on the floor did not call the foul at the time.

Following a league review, the WNBA announced that Thomas will miss one game, serving the suspension when the Mercury travel to the Toronto Tempo. Fever coach Stephanie White described the incident as “egregious,” insisting that “the fact that it was a no‑call…you’ve got to call it.” Fever team president Kelly Krauskopf also highlighted the importance of player safety, stating that the league’s action reinforces the organization’s commitment to protecting athletes.

Officials noted that this is not the first time the league has upgraded a foul involving Caitlin Clark. Last season, Marina Mabrey received a technical that was later elevated to a Flagrant 2, and the WNBA has a history of retroactively reclassifying fouls to maintain fair play. The recent game also featured a high number of technical fouls and an ejection, with Clark accruing her fifth technical of the season.

Beyond the suspension, the incident sparked a broader conversation about on‑court conduct and the league’s role in ensuring player safety. While the Mercury secured a narrow 111‑109 victory, the episode underscored the heightened physicality in recent matchups and the league’s readiness to intervene when necessary.

As the Mercury prepare to face Toronto, the suspension serves as a reminder that the WNBA will enforce standards designed to protect all participants. The league’s willingness to review and adjust penalties reflects a proactive stance on maintaining a safe and competitive environment for players.