WNBA suspends Alyssa Thomas one game after play involving Caitlin Clark

During Wednesday’s game, the two players were involved in a play for a loose ball during the second quarter, where Clark fell to the floor and Thomas’ fist made contact with Clark’s neck. Officials didn’t call a foul on the play in real time, prompting Fever head coach Stephanie White to call out the officiating postgame.

“I mean, the fist in the throat is crazy,” she said. “It’s crazy. It’s dangerous.”

Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) scrambles to get up over Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, during a game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Indiana Fever, 111-109. © Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The incident intensified tensions between both teams, which had played an emotional and physical matchup on Monday that saw multiple technical fouls on both sides.

Backlash over the lack of a call spread beyond the court and onto social media, with fans questioning why the call wasn’t made. The league office later reviewed the video and upgraded the incident to a Flagrant 2, resulting in an automatic suspension.

Jun 24, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) shoots the ball while Indiana Fever center Aliyah Boston (7) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

For Phoenix, the suspension removes one of its most versatile and physical defenders from the lineup to wrap up its three-game road trip. Thomas, a six-time All-Star, has been a central presence in both offensive creation and defensive matchups.

On the court, Wednesday’s game saw a season-high scoring effort from Thomas, who finished with 24 points, eight assists and four rebounds. The suspension also comes at a pivotal moment in the season for Phoenix, as it has managed to string wins more consistently after a slow start.

Jun 24, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) shoots the ball while Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

With Thomas out for Saturday’s game, the Mercury will have to replicate that production without her and sustain momentum without their All-Star after an already eventful stretch.