League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Caitlin Clark discusses emotional toll from Alyssa Thomas controversy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 25, 2026, 4:35 AM

Last updated Jul 25, 2026

Caitlin Clark discusses emotional toll from Alyssa Thomas controversy

Summary

Caitlin Clark reflected on the impact of her clash with Alyssa Thomas during a WNBA game on June 24, where Thomas's foul resulted in a Flagrant 2 penalty and a one-game suspension. Discussing the incident, Clark described the emotional drain caused by the aftermath and criticism surrounding it, stating that navigating the situation has been exhausting. Although she condemned the threats received by Thomas, Clark maintained her stance on the suspension. The league's actions have ignited debates regarding its investigation process and player safety. Clark is set to play in the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game, while Thomas has not made the roster for the first time since 2021.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Clark addressed the controversy during an interview with ESPN's Malika Andrews.
•The incident occurred during a game between the Indiana Fever and Phoenix Mercury.
•Thomas was suspended for one game and fined $1,000 for the foul.
•Clark criticized how media narratives have shaped public perception of the incident.
•Thomas received threats after the incident, raising concerns about player safety.

Latest Updates

4:35 AMYahoo Sports — ‘It’s Draining’ – Caitlin Clark Looks Back on Alyssa Thomas Controversy With Brutally Honest Assessment

What they're saying

"
The WNBA world continues to reverberate from the hit that Caitlin Clark took from Alyssa Thomas exactly a month after it happened. On June 24, during a second-quarter battle for a loose ball, Thomas sneaked a fist on the throat of the Indiana Fever superstar, a play which the Phoenix Mercury forward would later call unintentional.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Indiana Fever Phoenix Mercury WNBA Basketball