WNBA Faces Disruption as Adult Toys Thrown on Court
This week, the WNBA experienced some chaotic moments as fans tossed adult toys onto the court during games, interrupting play. For Minnesota Lynx Director Cheryl Reeve, this is no lighthearted prank; it’s a serious issue that goes beyond just a moment of viral entertainment.
“This has been happening for ages—sexualizing women,” she expressed in a media briefing after practice. “This is just the latest version, and it’s not amusing. It shouldn’t be a running joke on radio shows or in any print or online comments.”
Reeve took a moment to reflect on the situation, pointing out that at least six WNBA games have seen similar incidents lately. She said, “The sexualization of women serves to suppress them, and this is no different. It’s the newest iteration, and it deserves to be addressed seriously. Those who engage in this behavior need to be held accountable; we are not a punchline.”
Despite Reeve’s comments, an adult toy was still thrown during a game between the Atlanta Dream and Chicago Sky. In another incident, a toy was thrown in the third quarter but fortunately ended up near the bench instead of on the court.
This incident is part of a troubling trend. Over the past week and a half, similar disruptions have occurred during at least six games, starting on July 29 in Atlanta, followed by incidents in Chicago on August 1 and again in Los Angeles. It nearly hit Indiana Fever Guard Sophie Cunningham during yet another game in Chicago. Reports also indicated toys were thrown in New York and Phoenix, though no direct hits occurred there. So far, at least two arrests have been made—one in Georgia and another in Arizona—for obstruction.
Interestingly, an anonymous group connected with cryptocurrency has claimed responsibility for some of these disruptive actions. However, the WNBA has not yet commented on the accuracy of these claims.
The league is now contemplating legal action as well as a potential one-year ban for fans attempting similar stunts at games.
