Sexual Device Accident Injures WNBA Player Sophie Cunningham, Prompts Safety Debate
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is taking a firm stance against unacceptable behavior, particularly the ongoing issue of sex toy incidents targeting players. The league has announced a multi-layered approach to address this issue, focusing on enhanced security measures, immediate penalties, and cultural change.
New York Liberty forward Isabelle Harrison voiced concerns over arena security and the danger of throwing objects onto the court, describing the situation as "dangerous." Sky center Elizabeth Williams echoed Harrison's sentiments, calling the behavior "super disrespectful."
The WNBA has made it clear that objects thrown onto the court or in the seating area can pose a safety risk for players, game officials, and fans. In response, the league has announced that any fan who deliberately throws objects onto the court will face immediate ejection, a minimum one-year arena ban, and potential prosecution by local authorities.
Lynne Roberts, head coach of the Los Angeles Sparks, called the ongoing issue "ridiculous," "dumb," "stupid," and "dangerous." An 18-year-old named Kaden Lopez was arrested for throwing an object onto the court during the Phoenix Mercury vs. Connecticut Sun game in Phoenix, and Delbert Carver was arrested for a similar incident in Atlanta.
The WNBA has emphasized increasing safety measures both on social media platforms and in arenas. Key measures taken or proposed include increased arena security, legal enforcement, a zero-tolerance policy, public condemnation and cultural awareness, and player voices and advocacy.
In terms of security, the league has implemented no-bag policies or clear bag restrictions, thorough bag searches upon entry, and heightened surveillance within arenas to prevent contraband or dangerous items from entering. Arrests have already been made in connection with specific incidents, including disorderly conduct and criminal trespass charges against individuals who threw sex toys during games.
The WNBA has made clear it will not tolerate any objects being thrown on the court, emphasizing player safety and respect for the game. The league and players have condemned these acts as sexist, degrading, and disrespectful, underscoring the broader need for cultural change beyond enforcement.
The WNBA has also taken steps to promote respect and combat hate across the league. The league has instituted charter flights for player safety and unveiled the "No Space for Hate" initiative.
The incident has sparked growing safety concerns for WNBA players, with Fever guard Sophie Cunningham being grazed by a sex toy during the Los Angeles Sparks' 100-91 victory over the Indiana Fever on August 5. Another mean green sex toy was thrown onto the court at Wintrust Arena in the Golden State Valkyries' 73-66 victory over the Chicago Sky on August 1.
The increase in chatter and debate surrounding the WNBA and women's sports is expected with its unprecedented growth. The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game ratings hit 2.2M, signifying growing interest and support for the WNBA. However, the looming question remains about the next steps to ensure professional athletes are protected from harassment and violence.
Two more incidents involving WNBA arenas and players have occurred in Chicago and Los Angeles, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and action. The WNBA's commitment to player safety and respect for the game is evident in its comprehensive approach to addressing this issue.
- The WNBA has made it clear that any fan who deliberately throws objects onto the court, including sex toys, will face immediate ejection, a minimum one-year arena ban, and potential prosecution by local authorities.
- New York Liberty forward Isabelle Harrison and Sky center Elizabeth Williams have voiced concerns over arena security, describing the behavior as "dangerous" and "super disrespectful."
- Sky coach Lynne Roberts has called the ongoing issue "ridiculous," "dumb," "stupid," and "dangerous."
- The WNBA has emphasized increasing safety measures to prevent contraband or dangerous items from entering arenas, including no-bag policies, thorough bag searches, and heightened surveillance.
