NBA commissioner says Caitlin Clark controversy has become political, declines comment on suspension report
Adam Silver said the debate over a foul involving Caitlin Clark has turned into a political issue and refused to comment on reports that he intervened in a WNBA suspension decision.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver told reporters at CNBC's Game Plan Summit that the discussion surrounding a foul on rookie guard Caitlin Clark has turned into "political ping-pong," adding that the focus should remain on her performance rather than the controversy. Silver praised Clark as an "incredible player and also an incredible person" and said the situation has unfairly made her a political target.
He declined to confirm reports that he intervened to persuade WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert to suspend Indiana Fever forward Alyssa Thomas for a hard foul that resulted in a Flagrant 2 penalty, a one-game suspension and a fine. Silver said commenting on the matter would be unfair to both Clark and Engelbert and emphasized that the broader issue is improving officiating in both leagues.
The foul, which occurred on June 24 during a game between the Fever and the Phoenix Mercury, has drawn extensive attention, with Clark calling for better officiating and teammate Sophie Cunningham alleging targeted play. Thomas has claimed she received threats from fans. A group of House Republicans has warned the WNBA of possible investigations if the fouls continue.
Silver noted that while WNBA officiating needs improvement, his primary responsibility remains addressing complaints about NBA officiating.