The Los Angeles Sparks, a prominent team in the WNBA, faced another alarming incident during their game against the Indiana Fever on Tuesday night. A sex toy was thrown onto the court near Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, prompting a swift and visible response from both the players and the coaching staff. The incident, which occurred late in the second quarter, led to a moment of tension as Cunningham initially reacted in surprise before the Sparks star Kelsey Plum kicked the object off the court. The event has sparked renewed discussions about fan conduct in professional sports and the need for stronger security measures within WNBA arenas.
Lynne Roberts, the head coach of the Sparks, expressed her frustration with the repeated incidents, calling the act of throwing objects onto the court ‘stupid’ and ‘dangerous.’ Her comments reflect the growing concern within the league about the safety of players and the potential for such incidents to disrupt the flow of the game. Roberts highlighted the importance of maintaining a respectful environment for all participants, emphasizing that the focus should remain on the sport itself.
The WNBA has taken decisive action against those who engage in such behavior. Following the incident, the league announced that at least one fan who allegedly threw a sex toy during an Atlanta Dream game has been arrested and will face a minimum one-year ban. The league reiterated its commitment to player safety, stating that any object thrown onto the court or in the seating area poses a significant risk. This incident has added to the league’s ongoing efforts to address fan misconduct, ensuring that both fans and players can enjoy the games without the threat of such disruptions.