Adam Silver Says Caitlin Clark Became Political Flashpoint After 1-Game WNBA Suspension
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jul 17
Adam Silver Says Caitlin Clark Became Political Flashpoint After 1-Game WNBA Suspension
3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jul 17
Summary
Adam Silver said Caitlin Clark has become a "political football," arguing the uproar around WNBA officiating and physical play is no longer mainly about whether a foul was missed.
June 24 contact by Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas to Clark's throat triggered the latest debate; the play drew no in-game foul, then was upgraded to a flagrant and a 1-game suspension.
Thomas later called the play accidental and said she received death threats and racial slurs, while Clark and Fever coach Stephanie White condemned the abuse.
Silver said WNBA officiating still needs improvement, but added it is unfair that one foul involving Clark has grown into a broader fight over race, politics and the league.