Tensions Rise in the WNBA: DiJonai Carrington’s Frustration with Alyssa Thomas After Playoff Loss

According to insider accounts, Carrington expressed her frustration toward Thomas in a moment of heightened emotions. “She told coach that Alyssa needs to f**k off”, an insider revealed.

The star’s disappointment over the team’s performance bubbled over, leading her to suggest that Thomas should consider leaving the Sun. While the exact wording of Carrington’s comments is unclear, the sentiment behind them reflects the pressures that come with competing at such a high level.

Sun Guard DiJonai Carrington Sharply Criticizes WNBA For "Disrespect," Not  Promoting Historic Game Vs. Sparks | National Sports | starlocalmedia.com

This incident serves as a reminder that professional athletes are not just competitors but also individuals with deep emotional investments in their teams and careers. The pressure to perform can lead to intense moments that test relationships, but it can also foster growth and resilience when handled correctly.

Looking ahead, the Connecticut Sun must navigate these interpersonal dynamics as they prepare for the next season. The team has the potential to rebound from this experience, and how they address these tensions will play a significant role in their future success. Both Carrington and Thomas have the opportunity to learn from this moment, strengthening their bond and enhancing their performance as they aim for championship aspirations.

Sun Stars Have Intense Sideline Exchange Amid WNBA Playoffs Loss vs. Lynx

Alyssa Thomas and DiJonai Carrington appeared frustrated with each other during a Connecticut Sun timeout huddle during their WNBA Semifinals loss.

Oct 8, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Connecticut Sun guard DiJonai Carrington (21) and forward DeWanna Bonner (24) look on during the second half of game five of the 2024 WNBA playoffs against the Minnesota Lynx at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn ImagesOct 8, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Connecticut Sun guard DiJonai Carrington (21) and forward DeWanna Bonner (24) look on during the second half of game five of the 2024 WNBA playoffs against the Minnesota Lynx at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images / Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Lynx defeated the Connecticut Sun in a crucial winner-take-all Game 5 of the WNBA Semifinals on Tuesday by a score of 88-77.

While the Lynx showed up to play on their home court, the story of the game may be the poor performance from the Sun. Connecticut came out lackluster and was getting blown out by a score of 53-34 at halftime. While they played much better in the second half, the game was never in doubt for Minnesota, who will now play the New York Liberty in the WNBA Finals.

Perhaps the most disappointing performance was Sun star Alyssa Thomas. She finished the game with just 7 points on just 2 of 6 shooting from the field while only adding 2 rebounds.

Thomas is also getting criticized on social media for allegedly quitting on her team. And while that’s tough to confirm, an intense exchange between her and teammate DiJonai Carrington during a timeout went viral on X and is not a good look.

X user @slowlyslide posted the video of Carrington and Thomas’ exchange with the caption, “It’s ominous out there in the Sun bench”.

While the entire conversation can’t be heard, at one point a seemingly agitated Thomas is telling Carrington, “You have to do more on the post-action screen now.”

Then Sun coach Stephanie White ended the huddle with, “We’ve gotta force them to make some f****** calls, y’all.”

While these sorts of interactions are common among teammates, it coming in tandem with Connecticut unraveling on the court will leave a sour taste in the mouth of Sun fans this offseason.