Alyssa Thomas Criticizes WNBA Commissioner After Suspension

Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas expressed her frustration toward WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert on Tuesday. This came in light of her one-game suspension for delivering a serious blow to the throat of Indiana Fever player Caitlin Clark.

Thomas claimed she found out about the suspension just minutes before it was made public. She accused Engelbert of abandoning players by not addressing the backlash publicly. “Honestly, I didn’t even know I was suspended until 10 minutes before it was posted on social media. I haven’t heard anything from Kathy yet, so that’s not surprising,” she said.

Additionally, Thomas remarked, “You can see what’s being said on social media. It’s unfortunate, but she’s staying silent. It’s a shame when our lives are being threatened.”

These comments followed the WNBA’s decision to suspend her for a flagrant foul against Clark, a play that league officials deemed warranted additional penalties.

Thomas added, “It’s crazy that the whole story of playing the game, getting suspended, that whole story is played out there. It’s unfortunate that this has happened over basketball. A lot of us, including myself, didn’t even know the play had happened until after the game, and now we’re being portrayed as thugs.”

“And with threats of death looming over us, this is truly unacceptable. That’s something that needs to change in this league, but I’m really tired of it.”

Her statements raise questions about accountability. Instead of recognizing the reckless behavior that led to her suspension, Thomas seemed to redirect focus onto herself, suggesting that her punishment was the real injustice. This is an interesting stance from one of the league’s more physical players, known for her aggressive style of play.

Thomas’s comments also illuminate the ongoing debate about how Clark has been treated and protected in the league. Recently, Clark has faced excessive fouling and dangerous plays while the league has struggled to address the physicality surrounding her presence.

However, when a veteran like Thomas faces real consequences, the conversation shifts primarily toward sympathy for her rather than addressing Clark’s safety.

Despite the turmoil, Clark continues her career, facing physical treatment like a superstar, and maintaining her performance even as the league experiences record viewership.

Thomas had ample opportunity to accept that her actions warranted punishment but instead chose to portray herself as a victim.