News Summary
A bizarre incident occurred during a WNBA game in Indianapolis when a fan threw a neon green sex toy onto the court, striking a player. This marks the third such incident in recent weeks, raising safety concerns. Players and officials have expressed frustration over the disruptions and called for improved respect from fans. Following similar events in Atlanta and Chicago, the WNBA is reinforcing security protocols to ensure player safety and prevent future occurrences.
Indianapolis witnessed another bizarre disruption during a WNBA game on Tuesday night as a neon green sex toy was thrown onto the court in the match between the Indiana Fever and the Los Angeles Sparks. This marks the third incident involving the same object in recent weeks, raising concerns about safety in sports arenas and player welfare.
During the second quarter of the game, as Kelsey Plum of the Sparks shot free throws, a fan from the baseline seating area threw the neon green toy onto the court. It unexpectedly struck Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, prompting her to jump back in surprise upon realizing what it was. Security personnel swiftly responded to the situation, and Kelsey Plum kicked the toy off the court, which was subsequently covered with towels. Security began searching for the fan responsible for the disruption.
This occurrence follows two similar incidents already reported in the WNBA. The first was on July 29 during a game in Atlanta, where officials halted play for several minutes to address the situation. The second incident took place in Chicago on August 1; this time, the object was removed from the court more quickly. Following the earlier episode in Chicago, there was widespread concern among players, with some urging fans to refrain from throwing objects onto the court to avoid potential injuries.
The ongoing trend of throwing this specific neon green sex toy has not only disrupted games but also ignited discussions about the broader implications for player safety during matches. The WNBA has emphasized that fan safety is paramount and has implemented stringent protocols to address such incidents. Fans found throwing objects can expect immediate ejection from the arena, a minimum one-year ban from WNBA events, and potential arrest based on the severity of the disruption.
Law enforcement responded to the first incident by identifying and arresting the individual who threw the object during the Atlanta game, signaling an effort to take these incidents seriously. Players have shared their frustration with the lack of respect shown by those engaging in these acts. With some humor, Cunningham noted that she receives notifications from her mother cautioning her about the potential for “flying dildos” prior to games, highlighting the unusual nature of these disruptions. Other players, such as Elizabeth Williams of the Chicago Sky, described the situation as both “super disrespectful” and “immature.”
In the aftermath of the incidents, Kelsey Mitchell of the Fever remarked that the team cannot control the actions of every fan, instead hoping that spectators would focus on the game rather than engaging in unruly behavior. While the game continued after both earlier disruptions, the sudden appearance of a toy on the court raises serious concerns about player safety, as even humorous incidents can quickly turn dangerous in the fast-paced environment of a basketball game.
As discussions around fan behavior and player safety continue, the league is anticipated to strengthen its vigilance and security measures to prevent further disruptions. The WNBA remains committed to ensuring a positive and safe atmosphere for both players and fans alike.
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Additional Resources
- IndyStar: Sex Toy Thrown at WNBA Game
- Sports Illustrated: Sophie Cunningham Target of Sex Toy Incident
- Fox News: Angel Reese Comments on Sex Toy Fiasco
- OutKick: WNBA Sex Toy Throwing Incident Identified
- Straits Times: Players Slam Court Disruptions
- Wikipedia: WNBA
- Google Search: WNBA Player Safety
- Google Scholar: WNBA Events Disruptions
- Encyclopedia Britannica: WNBA
- Google News: WNBA Game Incidents
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
