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The Los Angeles Sparks experienced a disturbing incident during a recent game when an inappropriate object was thrown onto the court, leading to a strong reaction from head coach Lynne Roberts.
The WNBA has been dealing with a series of incidents where green sex toys have been thrown onto the court during games, resulting in the arrest of at least one fan.
Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum (10) drives to the basket while defended by Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell (0) in the first half at Crypto.com Arena on Aug. 5, 2025. (Kirby Lee/ Imagn Images)
During the game between the Sparks and the Indiana Fever, a similar incident occurred when an object was thrown onto the court near Fever guard Sophie Cunningham in the second quarter.
Cunningham reacted in surprise, while Sparks star Kelsey Plum kicked the object off the court.
“I thought we did a great job, Indiana included, just playing on,” Plum told reporters after the game. “Don’t give it any attention. The refs, I really appreciate them too.”
However, Sparks head coach Lynne Roberts expressed her frustration with the repeated occurrences.
Head Coach Lynne Roberts of the Los Angeles Sparks reacts in a game against the Las Vegas Aces during the fourth quarter at Crypto.com Arena on July 29, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. (Luke Hales/Getty Images)
“I think it’s ridiculous. It’s dumb. It’s stupid,” she said plainly. “We take – it’s also dangerous. Player safety is No. 1, respecting the game, all those things. I think it’s really stupid. That’s all I’m going to say.”
The WNBA announced that one individual who threw an object onto the court during an Atlanta Dream game has been arrested and will face a minimum one-year ban as a consequence.
“The safety and well-being of everyone in our arenas is a top priority for our league. Objects of any kind thrown onto the court or in the seating area can pose a safety risk for players, game officials, and fans,” the league stated. “In line with 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.”
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) leaves the court after the game against the LA Sparks at the Crypto.com Arena on Aug. 5, 2025. (Kirby Lee/ Imagn Images)
Instances of sex toys being thrown at WNBA games have been reported, with incidents occurring in various locations. Fortunately, none of these objects reached the courts.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
