WNBA star Caitlin Clark has been excluded from the ESPYs shortlist for Best WNBA Player, a decision that emerged just minutes after the league suspended Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas for striking Clark in the throat. The double blow underscores the contentious nature of awards season and on-court discipline in the league.
ESPYs Snub for Clark
ESPN announced the nominees for the Best WNBA Player ESPY, selecting Napheesa Collier, Allisha Gray, Alyssa Thomas, and A'ja Wilson. Clark's omission surprised many given her individual statistics, multiple All-Star appearances, and significant impact on the league's profile. The ceremony, typically held in July, honors achievements over the preceding 12 months.
Clark played 13 games for the Indiana Fever last season, averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.8 assists despite an injury-plagued campaign. She steadily progressed to All-Star caliber by 2026. In contrast, Wilson, who won the award last season, Gray (19.5 points per game for the Atlanta Dream), and Collier (22.0 points per game before offseason ankle surgery) all remain in contention.
Thomas Suspended for Throat Strike
The WNBA upgraded an incident during the second quarter of the Fever's defeat to Phoenix to a Flagrant Foul 2, calling it a "non-basketball act." Thomas received a one-game ban after the league concluded she recklessly made contact with her fist to Clark's throat area while both players scrambled for a loose ball. Clark had advanced the ball past midcourt before losing possession and tumbling to the ground.
Fan reaction was divided. One supporter wrote: "Caitlin is the only reason 44 games are being televised. The only reason the WNBA made a profit. Now y'all are treating her like crap." Another added: "Everyone freaking out not realizing this is for the 2025 season."
Broader Context
Clark's exclusion from the ESPYs highlights ongoing debates about recognition in the WNBA. Despite her statistical output and marketability, injuries limited her to 13 games, which may have influenced voters. Thomas, who averaged 14.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 8.4 assists last season, remains a nominee despite the suspension.
