The backlash over sex toys at WNBA games is escalating fast.
Toy makers and coaches have united in condemning a bizarre new trend that has seen adult products thrown onto the court during recent matches.
A fan hurled one onto the court last week, sparking laughter online but anger from players.
Since then, it has happened at least twice more, including during Tuesday’s clash between the Indiana Fever and Los Angeles Sparks.
Sophie Cunningham was struck just moments after she had publicly asked fans to stop. Police in Georgia and Arizona have arrested suspects over similar incidents, filing charges that include disorderly conduct, indecency, and trespassing.
Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve is demanding tougher action. She says the stunt feeds into the sexualisation of women that has existed for centuries.
“We’re not the butt of the joke,” she told reporters. “They are the problem. And we need to take action.”
Reeve says she wants anyone caught to face consequences. “It’s not funny. It shouldn’t be the butt of jokes on any radio show or in print. The sexualisation of women is what’s used to hold women down. This is no different.”
Sparks coach Lynne Roberts shares her frustration. She saw her team’s game interrupted and branded the act “ridiculous” and “dangerous.” Roberts stressed that player safety and respect for the sport must come first.
The manufacturers of the products agree. Avi Goldstein, owner of Twisted Fantasies, said: “We make adult toys for the bedroom, not for throwing around at basketball games. It’s inappropriate, it puts players and fans at risk, and it’s not something kids should see.”
Naughty Fox, another brand, delivered the same message. “We’re all for fun and freedom,” they told TMZ Sports, “but throwing a sex toy at WNBA players definitely crosses a line. Please keep the games sporty and the toys in the bedroom.”
With more games coming up and the story gaining attention, the WNBA is working with law enforcement to stamp out the behaviour before it causes more disruption.
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