The New York Knicks were known for playing dirty as well.
But the league dealt with it tough penalties for violent behavior.
The NBA protected the stars that brought in the fans and sold Merch.
The WNBA should do the same. Injured stars don’t play. If the stars don’t play the fans stop coming.
... and that is why today’s NBA game is ‘soft’ and not as popular as it was in the 80’s & 90’s.