Caitlin Clark took a shot to the throat during a WNBA game on Wednesday.
In a 111-109 loss to the Mercury, Clark slipped on the way to the basket, and in the ensuing fight for the ball, Alyssa Thomas landed a fist on Clark’s throat and then stepped over the Fever’s star player.
No foul was called on the play, which drew reactions throughout the WNBA, most notably from the Fever’s coach.
“It was egregious. The fact that it was a no-call … You got to call it,” said White. “You’re coming in here aware of what happened two nights ago and that s–t still happens? Absolutely unacceptable.”
The back-to-back matchups have been heated, with Monday’s game resulting in six technical fouls, including Clark’s fifth of the season, and one ejection.
Clark’s technical was issued for clapping in former teammate DeWanna Bonner’s direction after a brief altercation.
Both games resurrected the idea that Clark is treated unfairly in the WNBA.
“This. Tonight was a pivotal moment in Caitlin Clark’s season and career,” former WNBA player Stacey Dales said. “It’s time the league takes notes and adjusts. It impacts a franchise.”
Clark ultimately left the game with a back injury after being fouled on a 3-pointer.
Clark’s stardom has helped bring the WNBA to new heights of popularity.
When she was drafted in 2024, the WNBA had its most-watched regular season in 24 years, finished with its highest attendance in 22 years and set records for digital consumption and merchandise sales.
Prior to her arrival, the WNBA had not hit seven-figure viewership since 2008.
Clark’s game against the Tempo on June 16, averaged 1 million viewers throughout the broadcast.
“I simply cannot comprehend this situation. The league was a joke,” one X user said. “Clark brought in a significant number of viewers and substantial financial resources when she joined the league, and all they are doing now is trying to hurt her, which is killing the golden goose. This league is nothing more than prison ball.”
