Eleven members of the House Republican Study Committee have sent a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Englebert demanding answers by July 24 regarding the physical hostility and officiating surrounding Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.
The congressional inquiry follows a June 24 incident where Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas made contact with her fist to Clark's throat, leading to a one-game suspension after the league upgraded the play to a flagrant foul.
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Lawmakers expressed concern over the league's handling of aggressive contact targeted at the high-profile rookie, who has significantly increased ticket sales and television ratings for women's basketball.
"Millions of casual fans now tune in to watch her play," the lawmakers wrote.
"Unfortunately, what they too often witness is not simply aggressive competition, but repeated acts of physical hostility and violence.
Clark has been hip-checked, poked in the eye and struck in the throat during games."
They added that these incidents go beyond routine physical play, yet the WNBA and its officiating have failed to address them and hold players accountable.
Congressional representatives also suggested that government entities like the Department of Justice should investigate whether discrimination or retaliation are creating a hostile work environment within the league.
"I think sometimes people think I’m a robot. I’m not a robot," Clark said.
"It can be really frustrating to me at times. I’m 24 years old trying to navigate a lot.
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