Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas has revealed she has received death threats and racist abuse following her one-game suspension for an incident involving Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark.
Thomas was banned by the WNBA after making what the league described as “reckless contact” with Clark’s throat during Phoenix’s dramatic 111-109 victory over Indiana last Thursday. The six-time All-Star insists the incident was accidental and believes Mercury players are being unfairly portrayed.
Thomas says abuse has gone too far
Speaking on Tuesday, Thomas said the backlash following the incident had become deeply personal.
“It’s unfortunate that it’s come to this over basketball,” she said.
“A lot of us – myself included – didn’t even know the play took place until after the game.”
Thomas added that she and her teammates have been subjected to death threats and racist messages online.
“There’s death threats out on us. It’s really unacceptable. It’s really something that needs to change in this league and I’m just really sick and tired of it.
“People are sending racial slurs and all types of stuff. The hatred that we’re experiencing over a play that, honestly, was a complete accident.”
Suspension followed controversial incident
The incident occurred during the second quarter when Clark fell to the floor while battling Thomas for possession. Television replays appeared to show Thomas making contact with Clark’s groin before her fist struck the Fever guard’s neck.
Officials did not call a foul during the game, but the WNBA later reviewed the play and handed Thomas a one-game suspension for reckless contact to the throat area.
Thomas served the suspension during Phoenix’s victory over the Toronto Tempo on Saturday.
Commissioner criticised over silence
Thomas also criticised WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert, claiming the league had not done enough to protect players from abuse.
“We still have yet to hear anything from Cathy. It’s no surprise. You could see what’s being said on social media. As usual she remains silent.
“That’s unfortunate when our lives are being threatened.”
Engelbert later released a statement condemning all forms of hate and reaffirming that player safety remains the league’s highest priority.
“The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate,” the statement said.
Clark injury added to controversy
Moments after the clash with Thomas, Clark was fouled while attempting a three-pointer and landed awkwardly. She left the game during the second half with a back injury and did not return.
The officials reviewed that sequence for a potential hostile act by Clark after she made contact with a defender’s face, rather than for the foul committed against her.
Following the game, Indiana head coach Stephanie White criticised the officiating, describing it as “egregious” and “utterly disrespectful” towards Clark.
Phoenix and Indiana will meet again on 9 July, with the rematch set to take place in Phoenix.
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