Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas has finally addressed her controversial hit to Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark during their showdown at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday.
During the first half of the game, Clark tumbled as she attacked the basket. Several Phoenix players scrambled in an attempt to take the ball from her, including Thomas.
However, Thomas was caught on video connecting her fist to Clark’s throat area while the Fever playmaker was down and no longer had the ball. Making matters worse, no foul was called on the play, sparking a massive wave of backlash against Thomas and the WNBA.
After the game, the WNBA reviewed the play and judged that Thomas’ actions were reckless and could be considered a non-basketball act. With that said, the league hit her with a Flagrant 2 foul and a one-game suspension, which the Mercury star has since served (missing their showdown against the Toronto Tempo on Saturday).
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Unfortunately for Thomas, the incident has gotten out of hand, as she revealed that she and her family have received death threats. While urging the WNBA to take action and help protect the players, she also shared what really happened between her and Clark.
According to Thomas, her hit was not intentional, contrary to what many critics believe.
“There’s a difference between trolling and there’s a difference between hatred,” Thomas stated, per PHNX Sports. “The hatred that we’re experiencing over a play that honestly was a complete accident, and no one even knew what happened. It’s unfortunate. The league has to do better in this instance.”
Thomas added that the Mercury players, including herself, “didn’t even know the play took place until after the game.” She then proceeded to respond to those calling her and her teammates “thugs,” emphasizing that it’s “unacceptable.”
"Time and time again, players are going through this and the league remains silent. I'm sick and tired of it."
Alyssa Thomas on the social media hatred and threats the team has received. pic.twitter.com/q2Mk5R6uc5— PHNX Mercury (@PHNX_Mercury) June 30, 2026
For what it’s worth, Fever guard Sophie Cunningham did say on her podcast recently that no one from the Fever saw Thomas’ hit on Clark in real time. However, she expressed her belief that Clark was clearly targeted, which has been happening to the All-Star guard frequently.
It remains to be seen what actions the WNBA will take to protect Thomas and prevent the hate from spreading further, as well as to resolve the issue with Clark.
Related: Indiana Fever Guard Speaks Out After Replacing Caitlin Clark