Sports awards season always sparks debate about deserving and overlooked winners, and every selection ends up leaving someone disappointed. WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark has become the latest and most high-profile elimination following ESPN’s recent announcement of the ESPYs.
Clark was left off the ESPYS’ list of Best WNBA Player of the Year after an injury-plagued season with the Fever last year, during which she steadily earned All-Star eligibility by 2026. This revelation came minutes after the WNBA revealed that Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas had been disciplined for taking Clark’s shocking blow to the throat.
The ESPYS nominated Napheesa Collier, Alisha Gray, Thomas and A’ja Wilson for the honor, which recognizes the league’s outstanding performance throughout the calendar year. The award ceremony typically takes place in July, so this honor recognizes the athlete’s achievements over the previous 12 months.
Clark’s absence caused consternation beyond her recent injury issues, given her personal statistics, continued impact on league profile, and multiple All-Star appearances.
Thomas’ suspension stemmed from an incident during the second quarter of the Fever’s loss to Phoenix, in which Clark lost the ball while rolling to the ground after advancing it across the middle of the court. The Mercury forward appeared to be chasing a loose ball before stepping over Clarke during a scramble and punching him in the throat in the process.
The WNBA upgraded the incident to a Flagrant Foul 2 for “non-basketball conduct,” concluded that Thomas recklessly touched Clark’s throat with his fist, and suspended Thomas for one game.
Fan reaction to Thomas’ suspension was divided. Some argued that the punishment was long overdue, while others argued that the contact was accidental in a loose ball situation.
“44 games are going to be televised because of Kaitlyn. She’s the only reason the WNBA made money. Now everyone treats her like shit,” one fan wrote.
Another source added: “Everyone is panicking, not realizing this is for the 2025 season.”
Clark appeared in 13 games for Indiana last year, averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 8.8 assists. Wilson enters the ESPYS race after beating Clark for the honor last season, while Gray is averaging 19.5 points for the 12-5 Atlanta Dream.
Thomas averaged 14.1 points, 6.7 rebounds and 8.4 assists last season. Collier remains in contention after posting 22.0 ppg last season before recovering from offseason surgery on both ankles.
