Alyssa Thomas reveals shes faced death threats in wake of Caitlin Clark incident

Published: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 2:14 am

WNBA Player Alyssa Thomas Reports Death Threats and Racial Slurs Following Caitlin Clark Incident

Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas has revealed she has received death threats and been subjected to racial slurs in the aftermath of a controversial play involving WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark. Thomas spoke to reporters on Tuesday, expressing her distress over the intense backlash and criticizing the WNBA's response.

The incident occurred during a game between the Mercury and the Indiana Fever. Thomas was involved in a play where she appeared to make contact with Clark's neck and groin area while Clark was on the ground. While no foul was called during the game, the WNBA later reviewed the play and issued Thomas a one-game suspension.

Thomas has maintained that the play was an accident, stating that she and many of her teammates were unaware of the specifics of the play until after the game. She expressed frustration with how players are being portrayed, saying, "Now we're being painted as thugs. There's death threats out on us. It's really unacceptable." Thomas emphasized the need for change within the league to address such extreme reactions.

While Thomas did not strongly contest the suspension itself, she noted that she was not informed of the ban until shortly before it was publicly announced. Her primary concern, however, lies with the league's perceived lack of proactive measures to ensure player safety and address the escalating online vitriol. She highlighted instances of personal information being leaked and the circulation of inappropriate content, distinguishing between general online trolling and what she described as "hatred."

In response to Thomas's comments, the WNBA released a statement affirming that the safety and well-being of all involved are its top priority. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert stated that the experiences of Thomas and her teammates are "completely unacceptable and not representative of the WNBA community." The league also indicated that it has been in contact with the Phoenix Mercury and is committed to player protection.

However, reports from journalists suggest a different narrative regarding the communication between Thomas and Commissioner Engelbert. It has been reported that Thomas and Engelbert exchanged text messages last week, and that the commissioner instructed league security to contact the Mercury upon learning of the threats. This situation has become a recurring theme in controversies involving Caitlin Clark, who often finds herself at the center of intense discussions regarding her treatment by other players in the league.

BNN's Perspective: The intense scrutiny and personal attacks directed at athletes, particularly following incidents involving high-profile players like Caitlin Clark, are deeply concerning. While the WNBA has a responsibility to ensure player safety and address threats, it is also crucial for the league and its community to foster a more constructive environment for discourse. Athletes should be able to compete without fear of harassment, and the focus should remain on the game itself, rather than devolving into personal vendettas and dangerous rhetoric. A balanced approach that prioritizes player well-being while also encouraging respectful dialogue is essential for the league's growth and integrity.

Tags: Alyssa Thomas, Caitlin Clark, WNBA, death threats, racial slurs, Phoenix Mercury, Indiana Fever, suspension, Cathy Engelbert, player safety, online vitriol, controversy

Full Story