
The individual who threw a sex toy on the court during Tuesday’s game between the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries has been arrested, the WNBA said. This incident was the first of two that week, as another fan threw a sex toy at the Valkyries’ game on Friday against the Chicago Sky. The WNBA has issued a warning that anyone throwing objects at future games will be ejected and banned for at least a year.
The league did not confirm whether the fan involved in Friday’s incident was arrested. “The safety and well-being of everyone in our arenas is our top priority,” a WNBA statement read. “Objects thrown on the court pose a serious risk to players, officials, and fans. According to our security standards, anyone intentionally throwing an object will be ejected and could face arrest.”
The WNBA’s fan code of conduct states that those who throw objects will be ejected without a refund and may face further penalties. Players expressed their concerns over these incidents. “It was super dangerous,” said Valkyries forward Cecilia Zandalasini. “When we found out what it was, we couldn’t help but laugh, but I’m glad we remained focused.”
Isabelle Harrison of the Liberty, though not playing in those games, criticized the actions of those fans on social media, calling for improved security measures. “It’s not funny. Throwing anything on the court is extremely dangerous,” she said. Sky center Elizabeth Williams called the actions ‘disrespectful’ and urged those involved to mature.