At least one individual involved in the incident of hurling a sex toy onto the court during a WNBA game has been arrested. This event transpired during a match between the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries on July 29. The occurrence led to a temporary halt in the game, as an official took action to remove the object, with the assistance of a police officer. The WNBA issued a statement underscoring its commitment to safety and security in its arenas, stating that any individual who intentionally throws objects onto the court, regardless of their nature, will face ejection, a minimum one-year ban, and potential criminal charges.
The incident was captured by the cameras and caused an unexpected pause in the game. The league has maintained its stance on maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all individuals present, including players, officials, and fans. A subsequent incident occurred on Friday, where a fan attempted to replicate the initial act by throwing another sex toy under the basket during a game between the Valkyries and the Chicago Sky. The league’s response has been consistent, emphasizing the need for stricter measures to prevent such occurrences.
Several WNBA players have taken to social media to voice their concerns regarding the safety of the environment. Angel Reese, a player with the Chicago Sky, jokingly attributed the incident to her teammates, Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, stating that it was becoming increasingly strange. The situation has sparked broader discussions about the need for improved security measures and the potential consequences of such acts. Other players, including Sophie Cunningham and Isabelle Harrison, have also expressed concerns, highlighting the inherent danger of the situation and the inadequacy of current security protocols.