Sexual Device Accidentedly Strikes WNBA Player Sophie Cunningham, Igniting Safety Debates within the League
The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) is taking a firm stance against unsafe and disrespectful behavior in its arenas, following a series of incidents involving sex toys being thrown onto the court.
Any fan caught intentionally throwing an object onto the court will face immediate ejection and a minimum one-year ban, according to the WNBA. This strict policy is complemented by arrest and prosecution by local authorities where applicable.
Los Angeles Sparks head coach Lynne Roberts called the ongoing incidents "stupid" and "dangerous." Sky center Elizabeth Williams and Golden State Valkyries forward Cecilia Zandalsini have also expressed similar concerns, describing the behavior as "super disrespectful" and "super dangerous."
Recent incidents have occurred in Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Phoenix. In Chicago, a green sex toy grazed Fever guard Sophie Cunningham during a game on August 1, while another incident occurred in Los Angeles on August 5. Two more incidents took place in Chicago and Los Angeles, with a second person arrested for throwing an object onto the court during the Phoenix Mercury vs. Connecticut Sun game in Phoenix.
Delbert Carver was arrested for throwing the sex toy in Atlanta on June 29. The league has emphasized increasing safety measures, implementing enhanced arena security checks, increased surveillance, and clear communication of consequences to fans.
The WNBA has been vocal about protecting its players and promoting respect, but these incidents present a bigger issue involving player safety. New York Liberty forward Isabelle Harrison has expressed concerns over the matter, stating that arena security needs to do better.
The league has announced that continued behavior of throwing objects onto the court will result in ejection from the arena and a one-year ban. The WNBA has also encouraged broader cultural change, educating fans on respecting athletes and condemning sexist behavior to ensure the sporting environment remains professional and safe.
Despite these measures, incidents continued as recently as August 2025, indicating ongoing challenges that require vigilance and possibly further tightening of security measures. The WNBA remains committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for its players and fans.
- Fans who continue to throw objects during WNBA games will be ejected from the arena and face a one-year ban, as stated by the league.
- Following several incidents this season, players like Elizabeth Williams and Cecilia Zandalsini have expressed concerns about the disrespectful behavior and safety risks in WNBA arenas.
- During a recent game in Chicago, Fever guard Sophie Cunningham was grazed by a green sex toy that was thrown onto the court, reiterating the need for increased safety measures.
- The WNBA is not only implementing stricter security checks and increased surveillance, but also encouraging broader cultural changes to promote respect and condemn sexist behavior among fans.
