The WNBA is sending a strong message after back-to-back incidents involving fans tossing adult toys onto the court mid-game. Following the chaos, the league has confirmed the arrest of one of the individuals involved-marking a firm stance against disruptive and dangerous behavior.
On Tuesday, officials had to briefly stop play during the closing moments of a matchup between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream after an unidentified fan hurled an adult toy onto the court.
A similar incident happened again this week during the final minute of Golden State’s game against the Chicago Sky. In both cases, play resumed after the object was removed, but now, consequences have followed-at least one of the pranksters has been arrested.
WNBA: “Safety comes first”
In a statement released Friday and reported by the Associated Press, the WNBA emphasized its commitment to player and fan safety.
“The safety and well-being of everyone in our arenas is a top priority for our league,” the league said. “Objects of any kind thrown onto the court or in the seating area can pose a safety risk to players, game officials, and fans.”
The statement also laid out disciplinary measures:
“In line with the WNBA Arena Security Standards, any fan who intentionally throws an object onto the court will be immediately ejected and face a minimum one-year ban, in addition to being subject to arrest and prosecution by local authorities.”
While no details have been released about the arrested fan, the message from the league is loud and clear: this kind of behavior won’t be tolerated.
Players are not amused
Several WNBA players voiced their outrage. Among them was New York Liberty forward Isabelle Harrison, who posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“ARENA SECURITY?! Hello??! Please do better. It’s not funny. Never was funny. Throwing ANYTHING on the court is so dangerous.”
As the league tightens security and the investigation unfolds, fans and media continue to demand more transparency about the arrest. But one thing’s for sure: the WNBA isn’t playing when it comes to protecting its stars.
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