PHOENIX – Every major sports league eventually reaches a moment when its biggest star becomes more than just another player. That athlete transforms into the face of the sport, bringing new fans, larger television audiences, and unprecedented attention. For the WNBA, Caitlin Clark has accelerated that conversation faster than anyone expected. That is why Stephen A. Smith’s recent comments about the ‘cheap shots’ from the Phoenix Mercury against Caitlin Clark were indicative of something larger happening around the league.
Phoenix forward Alyssa Thomas (25) scrambles to get up over Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, during a game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Phoenix Mercury defeated the Indiana Fever, 111-109. © Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Stephen A. Smith comments on the Caitlin Clark and Phoenix Mercury altercation:
Smith suggested that the repeated physical incidents involving Clark, including the latest confrontation with the Phoenix Mercury, go beyond competitive basketball. In his view, there is a level of resentment surrounding Clark’s meteoric rise that continues to surface whenever opponents have an opportunity to send a message. At the same time, Smith acknowledged that Clark is hardly innocent. She plays with emotion, talks trash, and welcomes confrontation, making her an active participant in the league’s growing rivalries rather than simply a victim of them.
Jun 24, 2026; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) dribbles the ball while Phoenix Mercury forward Noemie Brochant (1) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
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For the Mercury, this conversation also highlights a larger reality. Phoenix has built its identity around competitive, hard-nosed basketball for years. That reputation is respected across the league. Basketball has always rewarded toughness. The greatest rivalries are built on physical play and emotional investment. But there is a fine line between competing against a superstar and allowing frustration over that superstar’s popularity to dominate the conversation.
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) falls in the lane as Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (25) eyes the ball Wednesday, June 24, 2026, during the first half of a game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. © Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Clark’s impact extends well beyond the box score, and her presence has consistently fueled ticket demand, increased television audiences, and drawn new casual fans to the WNBA. That is why Stephen A. Smith’s opinions on Caitlin Clark and the situation between the Phoenix Mercury showed how deep this actually is around the league.
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