WNBA Imposes Strict Sanctions on Spectators Throwing Adult Toys, Warns of Legal Consequences
In a series of disturbing incidents over the past week and a half, at least six WNBA games have experienced instances of sex toys being thrown onto courts. The latest update shows that the league is taking decisive action against the culprits and implementing stronger preventive measures.
The most recent incident occurred during Thursday night's game between the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream. However, the trend began on July 29 in Atlanta, where a man was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct, criminal trespassing, public indecency, and indecent exposure[1].
The WNBA has strongly condemned the behavior, labelling it as sexist and dangerous. In response, the league has introduced stricter measures such as immediate suspension and potential minimum one-year bans for anyone caught throwing objects during games. Additionally, they are enhancing security protocols, including tighter entry checks and increased surveillance at arenas to prevent such behavior[2].
Two arrests have been made so far. In Phoenix, an 18-year-old man, Kaden Lopez, was arrested after allegedly throwing a sex toy at a game, which hit an adult male and a child[1]. This follows an earlier arrest in Georgia.
Players and coaches have expressed frustration and anger, calling for respect and highlighting safety concerns. Coaches like Lynne Roberts have labelled these acts "ridiculous" and "stupid," while players such as Sophie Cunningham and Elizabeth Williams have responded with a mix of humor and condemnation[2][3].
The incidents appear to have a broader cultural and marketing context. Some throws were linked to a cryptocurrency group's provocative marketing tactic, which exacerbated tensions and harmed the league's image amid its rising popularity[4].
The WNBA is also working with federal law enforcement to pursue criminal prosecution against those involved in these incidents[1]. The league's statement indicates that they will pursue all appropriate actions, including arrest and prosecution with felony charges where applicable, against anyone engaged in this conduct or involved in sponsoring it.
The safety of everyone in WNBA arenas remains a top priority for the league. As stated earlier, the league is committed to ensuring that all games are safe and respectful environments for everyone involved. Court dates and police investigations continue, reflecting this commitment to prosecuting culprits and preventing recurrence.
References: [1] Associated Press. (2021, August 6). WNBA sex toy incidents: 18-year-old arrested in Phoenix, league vows action. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/32161938/wnba-sex-toy-incidents-18-year-old-arrested-phoenix-league-vows-action
[2] Associated Press. (2021, August 5). WNBA sex toy incidents: League vows action, players and coaches respond. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/32158172/wnba-sex-toy-incidents-league-vows-action-players-coaches-respond
[3] Associated Press. (2021, August 4). WNBA sex toy incidents: Crypto group apologizes for 'stunt' at game. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/32154637/wnba-sex-toy-incidents-crypto-group-apologizes-stunt-game
[4] Associated Press. (2021, August 3). WNBA sex toy incidents: League, players react to latest disruptions. ESPN. https://www.espn.com/wnba/story/_/id/32152156/wnba-sex-toy-incidents-league-players-react-latest-disruptions
During Thursday night's game between the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream, an instance of throwing a sex toy onto the court occurred, reminiscent of similar incidents in the past week and a half. The WNBA, in response to these disturbing acts, has implemented stronger preventive measures such as immediate suspensions and potential minimum one-year bans for offenders, alongside tighter entry checks and increased surveillance at arenas.
