
Alyssa Thomas was absent from the Phoenix Mercury's 89-80 win over the Toronto Tempo on Saturday. Guard Kahleah Copper extended her 20-point game streak to three with a game-high 27 points, while forward Dewanna Bonner had a game-high 11 rebounds.
Thomas was not available for the game due to a one-game suspension levied against the six-time All-Star due to an apparent punch to the throat of Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. Although Phoenix won the game 111-109, it lost its four-time All-WNBA forward for the next game in Toronto. The 34-year-old recently spoke out on WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, not only for the suspension enforced, but for the lack of support for her during.
On Tuesday, Thomas spoke with the Associated Press, revealing the extent of the fallout following the incident with Clark. Thomas revealed that she has received death threats and racial slurs, is concerned for her safety, and feels that the league is doing nothing to protect her.
"…There's death threats out on us," said Thomas. "It's really unacceptable...the biggest thing is about our safety. We're so concerned about the safety on the court, but time and time again, we're having people threaten our lives. Leaking addresses out there. Putting crazy pictures that have nothing to do with basketball."
Thomas continued with her criticism, this time directing it toward the league office.
"People are sending racial slurs and all types of stuff," Thomas said. "There's a difference between trolling and there's a difference between hatred. The hatred that we're experiencing over a play that, honestly, was a complete accident, no one even knew it happened. It's just unfortunate. The league has to do better in this instance."
With the spotlight now pointed back at the WNBA, Engelbert released a statement Tuesday night.
"The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate," Engelbert said. "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 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."
Alyssa Thomas said she has received death threats after her incident with Caitlin Clark. pic.twitter.com/U4ZXf1qxG9
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) June 30, 2026
Phoenix will begin a three-game homestand against the Seattle Storm on Thursday at 10 p.m. ET at the Mortgage Matchup Center.
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