Marina Mabrey Suspended Amid Caitlin Clark Assault Investigation That’s Rocking the WNBA

Chicago — The WNBA has been thrown into turmoil after Chicago Sky guard Marina Mabrey was suspended indefinitely pending the results of an explosive investigation into an alleged on-court assault involving Indiana Fever rookie star Caitlin Clark.

The move comes just 48 hours after a heated Fever–Sky matchup ended in chaos, with Clark leaving the game visibly shaken following a hard foul late in the fourth quarter.

The Incident

With just over two minutes left in a tight contest, Clark was driving to the basket when Mabrey delivered what many fans and analysts have called an “unnecessary and excessive” body check. Clark fell hard to the court, clutching her shoulder as officials quickly called a personal foul.

The Fever bench immediately erupted, with teammates confronting the referees and calling for Mabrey’s ejection. While Mabrey remained in the game at the time, the WNBA has since reviewed the footage and deemed the contact “potentially beyond the scope of standard play.”

The Suspension Announcement

In a statement released this morning, the league confirmed Mabrey’s suspension:

“Effective immediately, Marina Mabrey has been suspended pending the completion of an investigation into the incident involving Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. The WNBA prioritizes player safety and will take all necessary measures to maintain the integrity of the game.”

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Caitlin Clark’s Response

Clark has not spoken in detail about the hit, but after the game she told reporters:

“I’ve taken hard fouls before — it’s part of basketball — but some things cross the line. I’ll let the league handle it.”

Sources close to the Fever say Clark has been undergoing evaluation for a potential shoulder injury and will be monitored closely in the coming days.

Fan Outrage

Social media exploded following the announcement, with the hashtag #ProtectCaitlinClark trending within minutes:

“Finally, the WNBA is taking action. That wasn’t basketball, that was a cheap shot.”

“Marina Mabrey should be out for the season if Clark is hurt.”

“If this happened to one of the league’s favorites, suspensions would’ve come faster.”

Chicago Sky’s Statement

The Sky organization issued a cautious response:

“We respect the league’s decision and will cooperate fully with the investigation. Marina is a valued member of our team, and we ask that judgment be withheld until all facts are known.”

Mabrey herself has remained silent on the matter, declining media requests for comment.

What the Investigation Will Cover

According to WNBA sources, the investigation will review:

Multiple camera angles of the foul.

Mabrey’s prior disciplinary history.

Testimony from game officials, both teams, and Clark herself.

Medical reports detailing the extent of Clark’s injury, if any.

The league is expected to issue its final decision within the week.

The Bigger Picture

This suspension reignites the conversation about targeted physical play against Caitlin Clark, a narrative that has followed her since the start of her rookie season. Critics argue that the league has been too slow to protect one of its most marketable stars from repeated hard fouls.

Sports analyst Denise Harper warned:

“If the WNBA doesn’t send a strong message here, it risks not only Clark’s safety but the league’s credibility.”