India, July 16 -- The suspension of Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas following her controversial incident with Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has taken a new turn after a report claimed NBA Commissioner Adam Silver played a role in the league's decision to discipline the veteran player.

According to Sports Business Journal, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert was initially not planning to suspend Thomas after the incident involving Clark. The report claimed Silver urged Engelbert to issue a suspension after reviewing the play and believing the contact warranted further action.

The incident occurred during a loose-ball play when Thomas' hand made contact with Clark's throat area. The contact was not called as a foul during the game,...