The latest on-court attack on Caitlin Clark might just be the biggest yet — and possibly the point where a line was finally drawn.
The Phoenix Mercury’s Alyssa Thomas drove her fist into the point guard’s neck before stepping over her on the ground, and the play was initially not called — a review of the play resulted in a Flagrant 2 and an ejection in one game.
But the offense caught rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), who said Clark is getting the “bully treatment” in the WNBA, calling it “pathetic.”
OUTKICK SPORTS CARTOON: THE LATEST ATTACK ON CAITLIN CLARK
Rep. Tim Burchett speaks to reporters after a closed briefing by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche before the House Oversight Committee in Washington, DC, on March 18, 2026. (Getty Images)
“I think it’s trashy. She’s getting that crap thrown out of her. The WNBA has an opportunity for women to take it to the next level and she’s just being abused…” 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 above 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 “there’s something wrong” about Clark not being on a promotional poster for the WNBA’s 30th anniversary, despite Clark’s games resulting in record attendance and ratings.
“I think there’s something wrong, I think everybody knows what’s wrong. And they’re going to lose,” Burchett said before making a bold prediction.
“Some European league will drag her in and they’ll pay her and she’ll pull out and they’ll all be flying coaches again.”
Mercury even posted a message on social media that appeared to mock the play on Clark, including a comic book player lying on the floor that read “DE-WANNA PIECE OF THIS?!?”
The WNBA suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for committing a Flagrant 2 foul on Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
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The post appeared to be a play 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.
