The WNBA has been facing a series of disruptions involving sex toys, specifically green dildos, being thrown onto courts during games. These incidents have occurred at six different games, including a recent event where two sex toys were thrown during the fourth quarter of a match between the Atlanta Dream and the Chicago Sky. The league has responded by implementing a "no bag policy" at games, installing safety nets at all 13 WNBA venues, and working closely with local and federal law enforcement to identify and prosecute those responsible. Two individuals have been arrested so far in connection with these acts. A cryptocurrency group behind the so-called "Green Dildo Coin" has claimed responsibility, stating the dildo-throwing is part of a coordinated marketing campaign to pump their meme coin, which has nearly tripled in value since the coin's creation just before the first incident. The campaign has been described by commentators as a form of harassment, with some accusing the perpetrators of sexist motives aimed at demeaning women in sports. Additionally, unregulated sports prediction markets have reportedly allowed fans to bet on whether sex toys will be thrown onto the court, potentially encouraging the behavior. The NYPD is actively conducting a manhunt for a suspect involved in one of the incidents, and discussions continue about further security measures, including the possibility of banning fans or even playing games without women athletes to prevent such disruptions. The controversy has sparked debate about the challenges the league faces in maintaining player safety and the broader cultural implications of the incidents.
The WNBA is still struggling with a string of sex-toy disturbances. https://t.co/LWTZV27RGU
British Transport Police has confirmed it is hunting the passengers who dealt with this man for exposing his genitals around children on a London tube last week. 👇 https://t.co/BZu4LwO2tW
Opinion: How do we know that it's culturally acceptable to demean WNBA players? Simple. You can bet on it. https://t.co/SPNPI3NtG1