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

Fever coach criticizes officials over Thomas' actions toward Clark

ESPN • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 3:24 AM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Fever coach criticizes officials over Thomas' actions toward Clark

Summary

Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White expressed strong discontent regarding officials' handling of on-court incidents involving Caitlin Clark during a game against the Phoenix Mercury. White condemned Alyssa Thomas for what she described as 'cheap shots' toward Clark, including a controversial push on Clark's neck that went unpenalized. White emphasized the importance of consistent officiating after her team's loss, highlighting previous scuffles in matchups between the teams. She raised concerns about Clark's injury caused by another incident during the game. White plans to address Clark's officiating in future league inquiries.

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By the Numbers

•Stephanie White criticized referees for not calling fouls against Caitlin Clark.
•Alyssa Thomas faced backlash for aggressive plays against Clark during the game.
•White claimed Clark receives unfair treatment from officials.
•Clark suffered a potential injury from a closeout attempt that was not penalized.
•The Fever plan to discuss officiating standards with the league.

Latest Updates

8:39 PMESPN — Fever coach thanks WNBA review, but scolds refs
5:22 AMESPN — Fever's Clark exits with back issue, won't return
4:22 AMYahoo Sports — Stephanie White blasts officials after ‘cheap shots’ on Caitlin Clark
3:24 AMYahoo Sports — Fever coach slams Alyssa Thomas, officials over Caitlin Clark 'cheap shots'

What they're saying

"
Fever coach Stephanie White went off on officials for not calling what she deemed two "cheap shots" against star guard Caitlin Clark in Wednesday's loss to the Mercury, including a play in which Alyssa Thomas appeared to push her fist into Clark's neck.
— ESPNby Michael Voepel

"
Stephanie White is glad the WNBA review punished Alyssa Thomas for her hit to Caitlin Clark's throat, but the Fever coach wonders how refs failed to make a call in real time.
— ESPN