The latest on-field attack on Caitlin Clark might just be the biggest yet – and perhaps the point where a line was finally drawn.
Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury drove her fist into the point guard’s neck before straddling him to the ground, and the play wasn’t initially called — a review of the play resulted in a Flagrant 2 and a one-game suspension.
But the foul drew the ire of Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), who said Clark was getting the “thug treatment” in the WNBA and called him “pathetic.”
OUTKICK SPORTS CARTOON OF THE DAY: THE LATEST ATTACK ON CAITLIN CLARK
Rep. Tim Burchett speaks to reporters after a closed-door briefing by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche to the House Oversight Committee in Washington, DC, March 18, 2026. (Getty Images)
“I think it’s trashy. She’s getting kicked out. The WNBA has an opportunity for women to go to the next level, and she’s just being mistreated…” Burchett told TMZ Sports.
“It’s supposed to be a physical game – it’s not supposed to be a wrestling match. Take it to the professional wrestling association.”
Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas struggles to get up from Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark during a game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on June 24, 2026. The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Indiana Fever 111-109. (USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect)
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Burchett also said “something was going on” regarding Clark not being featured on a promotional poster for the WNBA’s 30th anniversary, despite Clark’s games resulting in record attendance and viewership.
“I think something is happening, I think everyone knows what’s happening. And they’re going to lose,” Burchett said, before making a bold prediction.
“A European league will sign her, they will pay her, she will retire and they will all come back in a flying coach.”
The Mercury even posted a post on social media that seemed to mock the piece on Clark, including a cartoon player lying on the floor with the caption “D-WANNA PIECE OF THIS?!?”
The WNBA has suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for committing a flagrant foul 2 against Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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The post appeared to be a pun on DeWanna Bonner’s name. Bonner, of course, is now with the Mercury after a brief stint with the Fever last season, and the two teams have already had plenty of tension this week.
