WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert responded after being called out by Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas.
In a statement obtained by Front Office Sports, Engelbert said:
“The WNBA vehemently condemns any and all forms of hate. 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.”
Thomas retroactively received a Flagrant 2 foul and one-game suspension last week after what the league deemed as a “non-basketball act” committed against Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. The incident has since consumed WNBA discourse, and has sparked debate outside league circles, including from several Republican politicians.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday in Phoenix, Thomas demanded the league take action, saying she has received threats against her life.
“The biggest thing is about our safety,” Thomas said. “We’re so concerned about the safety on the court, but time and time again we’re having people threatening our lives. Leaking addresses out there. Putting crazy pictures that have nothing to do with basketball.
At some point, the league needs to put a stand on it. They came out with ‘No Hate Speech,’ but what is that going to do,” she said. (Thomas was referring to the league’s “No Space for Hate” platform launched last year.)
Thomas also mentioned Engelbert by name, saying the commissioner has not said anything about the threats against her: “We still have yet to hear anything from Cathy. It’s no surprise. You can see what’s being said on social media, and as usual she remains silent.”
A source with knowledge of the situation tells FOS that Engelbert “exchanged texts and offered to get on a call” with Thomas after the incident last week. It’s not clear whether Thomas accepted the offer.
The Mercury and representatives for Thomas did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
