Sex Toy Thrown at WNBA Star Sparks Security Concerns as Player Safety Comes Under Spotlight | Watch

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In a bizarre and troubling trend, a sex toy was hurled onto the court during a WNBA game between the Los Angeles Sparks and Indiana Fever on Tuesday, marking the third such occurrence within just one week. This time, the object struck Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, raising serious concerns about security and fan behavior.

Sophie Cunningham Reacts After Being Hit

The green-colored object landed on Cunningham’s leg mid-game. Ironically, Cunningham had previously posted on social media, urging spectators to stop throwing sex toys onto the court.

“This did NOT age well,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter) after the game, quoting her earlier appeal. She also posted on Instagram: “No way that thing hit me. I knew I shouldn’t have tweeted that.”

SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM GOT HIT BY A DILDO 😭 pic.twitter.com/WVW9DaAalu

— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) August 6, 2025

Though the game was only briefly interrupted, the incident sparked outrage, with Sparks guard Kelsey Plum kicking the object off the court as fans pointed toward the suspected perpetrator. It remains unclear whether the person responsible has been identified or penalized.

Repeat Offenses Raise Questions About Security

This disturbing act follows two similar incidents earlier in the week. On Friday, a sex toy was tossed from the stands at Wintrust Arena in Chicago during the Golden State Valkyries vs. Chicago Sky game. A few days prior, another object landed on the court during the Valkyries’ win over the Atlanta Dream at Gateway Center Arena, leading to an arrest.

The individual in the Atlanta incident was charged with multiple offenses, including public indecency and disorderly conduct, according to Reuters. Further social media reports suggest attempts to replicate the act in Phoenix and New York, though in those instances, the objects did not reach the playing area.

WNBA and Coaches Respond

The WNBA has taken a firm stand, stating, “The safety and well-being of everyone in our arenas is a top priority for our league,” said a league spokesperson.

“Any fan who intentionally throws an object onto the court will be immediately ejected and face a minimum one-year ban…” Sparks coach Lynne Roberts also didn’t hold back after the incident, “I think it’s ridiculous, it’s dumb, it’s stupid… It’s also dangerous, and players’ safety is No. 1.”

Growing Call for Stricter Measures

These repeat incidents have sparked debate around fan control, arena security, and player safety. It is more important than ever to maintain a secure environment because the league is becoming more well-known, particularly as a result of the ascent of star players and greater media attention.

The WNBA says it is committed to prosecuting offenders and tightening arena security protocols. As the issue gains national attention, many fans and players are calling for a cultural shift in how live sporting events are experienced and policed.