WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert responded after Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas criticized her on Tuesday.
Thomas told the media she has since received death threats and been called racial slurs for her incident with Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark last week, which she says was a “complete accident.” During the second quarter of a 111-109 Mercury win, Thomas shoved her fist in Clark’s throat. No foul was called on the play, but she was later assessed a flagrant 2 and suspended for one game.
Engelbert released a statement after Thomas revealed she had been the victim of written and verbal abuse.
Cathy Engelbert speaks on Alyssa Thomas situation
“The WNBA vehemently condemns all forms of hate,” she said (h/t Yahoo Sports). “The safety and well-being of everyone in our community is always the league’s top priority. We are aware of Alyssa Thomas’ comments, and what she said, and her teammates have experienced is completely unacceptable and not representative of the WNBA community. The league and our security team have been in contact with the Phoenix Mercury organization and remain committed to protecting all players.”
