NBA Commissioner Persuaded WNBA to Suspend Alyssa Thomas

The One‑Game Suspension Explained

Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury was handed a one‑game ban after delivering a cheap shot to Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. The incident occurred on June 24 when Thomas struck Clark’s throat with a fist, a play captured on video and labeled a flagrant foul. Sources told Tom Friend of the Sports Business Journal that NBA chief Adam Silver intervened to push WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert toward discipline. Engelbert had initially hesitated, believing the on‑court non‑call made a suspension too harsh, but Silver’s urging changed her stance.

Role of the Commissioners

According to the report, Silver felt Clark’s situation warranted clear action and personally told Engelbert she “had to act.” He cited the video evidence as proof of a flagrant offense and expressed sympathy for the star guard. Engelbert’s early assessment was that the lack of a foul on the play made a suspension overly punitive. The eventual one‑game ban was seen as justified once the full footage emerged.

Criticism of Engelbert’s Leadership

Engelbert has faced mounting backlash for her handling of Clark’s safety since the rookie’s arrival. Many observers argue that the league’s top star has been left vulnerable to cheap shots from rivals. The failure to discipline Thomas earlier was seen as another example of inadequate protection for Clark. Critics link this trend to a broader perception that jealousy over Clark’s popularity has influenced league decisions.

Future Uncertainty for the Commissioner

Speculation about Engelbert’s tenure grew after Silver commented on “ongoing discussions” about her role during a press gathering at the NBA Summer League. The previous year, there were rumors she might not survive the renewal of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, but that process appears to have kept her in place for now. Engelbert’s recent decision to skip an interview with Dan Patrick at a golf tournament also drew public scrutiny. She reversed course only after league PR advisors advised against the appearance, prompting further criticism.