U.S. lawmakers criticize WNBA's handling of Caitlin Clark incident
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 31, 2026, 4:47 AM
Last updated Jul 31, 2026
An incident on June 24 during the Indiana Fever vs. Phoenix Mercury game involving Alyssa Thomas and Caitlin Clark has sparked political controversy. Following a fist-to-throat contact that went unpunished in real-time, the league upgraded the foul after review. Republican members of Congress, including August Pfluger, sent a letter questioning the treatment of Clark by the WNBA, demanding a response by July 24. Journalist Jemele Hill emphasized the polarization surrounding Clark, stating the issue extends beyond sports. Clark herself expressed frustration over media discussions that often overlook her on-court performance. The incident illustrates the intersection of sports, politics, and social issues in the current context of the WNBA.
- •Alyssa Thomas' foul on Caitlin Clark prompted significant backlash.
- •A letter from GOP lawmakers criticized the WNBA's officiating of Clark.
- •Clark reported feeling pressure from media discussions around her.
- •The WNBA failed to respond by the requested deadline from lawmakers.
- •The incident has implications for racial issues in sports.
- 4:47 AMYahoo Sports — “Gives FOX Programming for 6 Hours”: American Sports Writer Reacts Strongly to U.S. Lawmakers’ Position on Caitlin Clark’s WNBA Treatment
"On June 24, during a matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Phoenix Mercury, an incident involving Alyssa Thomas’ fist-to-throat contact on Caitlin Clark broke the internet after the officials failed to call it in real time. Even though the WNBA upgraded it to a flagrant foul 2 after a review, Thomas received threats and the issue became so polarized that it led to Republican Study Committee chair August Pfluger and 10 other GOP members sending an official letter to WNBA commissioner Cathy En
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