Republican lawmaker rips WNBA’s ‘thug treatment’ of Caitlin Clark after latest on-court controversy

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 shoved her fist into the point guard’s neck before stepping over her on the ground, and the play initially went uncalled — a review of the play resulted in a Flagrant 2 and a one-game suspension.

But the foul caught the ire of Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), who said Clark gets the “thug treatment” in the WNBA and called it “pathetic.”

OUTKICK SPORTS CARTOON OF THE DAY: 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 at the House Oversight Committee in Washington, D.C., on March 18, 2026. (Getty Images)

“I think it’s trashy. She gets the crap kicked out of her. The WNBA has an opportunity for women to take it to the next level, and she’s being just abused…” Burchett told TMZ Sports.

“It is supposed to be a physical game — it’s not supposed to be a wrestling match. Take it to the pro wrestling association.”

Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas scrambles to get up over 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 that “something’s up” regarding Clark not being on a promotional poster for the WNBA’s 30th anniversary, despite Clark’s games resulting in record-breaking attendance and viewership.

“I think something’s up, I think everybody knows what’s up. And they’re going to lose,” Burchett said, before making a bold prediction.

“Some European league is going to pull her in, and they’ll pay her, and she’ll pull out, and they’ll all be back flying coach.”

The Mercury even posted a social media message that seemed to mock the play on Clark, including a cartoon player lying on the floor with the caption, “DE-WANNA PIECE OF THIS?!?”

The WNBA suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for committing a Flagrant 2 foul against 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.

OutKick’s Dan Zaksheske contributed to this report.

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