Sophie Cunningham called out by WNBA for pulling Alyssa Thomas after Caitlin Clark foul

A strange situation took place during the Indiana Fever vying for the Connecticut Sun on Monday, June 10, 2025. The contest displayed all of the typical components, until a play in the third quarter led to something rather interesting falling into the world of sports.

Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, and Alyssa Thomas were the names given. Things grew physical, and the WNBA was not going to ignore it. Many fans watching live or later on social media were surprised. Now, one of the players from the Fever has been officially punished by the league, and people want to know why.

Sophie Cunningham penalized for pulling down Alyssa Thomas after hard foul on Caitlin Clark

The Indiana Fever took on the Connecticut Sun at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Monday night, June 10, 2025.

The third quarter of this match saw things heat up significantly when Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun, in an effort to get a rebound, fouled Fever rookie Caitlin Clark. The contact by Alyssa Thomas sent Caitlin Clark crashing to the floor and was observed not only by players, but also by the refs and fans.

Right after that, Indiana Fever’s guard Sophie Cunningham reacted. She quickly grabbed Alyssa Thomas from behind and pulled her down.

The referees, at their own discretion, hit stop and reviewed the play. There was a loud reaction from the crowd and both teams looked tense.On Wednesday June 12, 2025 the WNBA levied a fine against Sophie Cunningham for "unsportsmanlike conduct." The league declared that her behavior was unnecessary and went beyond the standard expectations of conduct in a game. The league did not provide a dollar figure for the fine, but the notification fulfilled the purpose of an official punishment for her actions during the game.

Caitlin Clark, Stephanie White and others react to the action on the court

Caitlin Clark, who had just been fouled by Alyssa Thomas before this occurred, remained composed when asked about it. She told reporters,“I always try to focus on the game and not let things get to me.” Caitlin Clark didn’t mention Sophie Cunningham or Alyssa Thomas directly.

Connecticut Sun’s coach, Stephanie White, spoke out after the game. She said, “Physical play is part of basketball, but we must keep it safe. That moment was too much.”Neither Sophie Cunningham nor the Indiana Fever have shared any official comments about the fine yet. The league continues to remind players that safety and respect must come first.Also Read: Three Ejected After Massive Brawl Erupts During Indiana Fever Vs Connecticut Sun Game Following Foul On Caitlin Clark