INSTANT KARMA: Marina Mabrey Faces Investigation for Dirty Play on Caitlin Clark

The WNBA is once again under the microscope as Chicago Sky guard Marina Mabrey faces an official investigation following a controversial foul on Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark — a play that fans are calling dirty, intentional, and possibly suspension-worthy.

The incident occurred during the third quarter of Wednesday night’s heated Sky vs. Fever matchup. Clark, attempting to cut through the lane on a fast break, was hit with what appeared to be a high, unnecessary shoulder-check from Mabrey, causing her to stumble and fall hard to the floor. Though Clark quickly got up, replay angles sparked immediate outrage across social media — and now, the league is taking notice.

League Launches Investigation

According to sources within the WNBA, the league is formally reviewing the play for “excessive contact and potential unsportsmanlike conduct.” Mabrey was not ejected during the game, but she did receive a personal foul. However, many believe that wasn’t nearly enough.

“This was not just physical basketball. That was targeted,” one analyst said on ESPN’s WNBA Tonight. “It looked like she wanted to send a message — and that message crossed the line.”

The WNBA released a brief statement Thursday morning, confirming that the play is under “active review,” with a decision expected within the next 24 to 48 hours. Disciplinary actions could include a fine, suspension, or both.

Fan Backlash & “Instant Karma”

As the video of the foul spread online, fans erupted with calls for accountability — and in what some are calling instant karma, Mabrey later turned the ball over twice in the final minutes of the game, contributing to the Sky’s 84–79 loss.

“You try to take out Caitlin and end up costing your own team the win? That’s karma,” one fan tweeted.
Another wrote: “Marina Mabrey just secured herself a highlight on WNBA Villain Reels.”

Caitlin Clark, for her part, didn’t retaliate during the game and kept her postgame comments calm and focused.

“I’ve taken hits before,” Clark said. “That’s part of the game. I’m here to win, not to get into it with anybody.”

However, Fever head coach Christie Sides was less diplomatic.

“There’s being physical, and then there’s being reckless,” she said in her postgame remarks. “We’re glad Caitlin’s okay — but that should be reviewed. Period.”

A Pattern?

This isn’t the first time Mabrey has been involved in controversy. Known for her fiery attitude and aggressive play, she’s gained a reputation as a high-energy, no-nonsense competitor. But critics argue that intensity has crossed the line too many times this season.

Several former players and commentators have called on the league to set a precedent to protect its stars — particularly Caitlin Clark, whose every move has drawn attention since joining the WNBA.

What’s Next?

As the WNBA reviews the footage, the league finds itself at a crossroads — between maintaining the toughness of the game and protecting its marquee players from unnecessary risk.

One thing’s clear: the league will have to act fast, because fans — and players — are watching closely.