Lynx Coach Cheryl Reeve Calls for Action Against Sex Toys Thrown at WNBA Games

Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve has voiced her concerns regarding a disturbing trend at WNBA games: the throwing of sex toys onto the court. This phenomenon has occurred at least five times since late July, with some objects making it onto the playing surface, prompting at least one arrest related to these incidents.

On Thursday, Reeve, a significant figure in the league, called for an end to this behavior and demanded accountability from those responsible. "This has been going on for centuries, the sexualization of women. This is the latest version of that. And it's not funny," she stated emphatically. "It should not be the butt of jokes on any radio shows or in print or in any comments. The sexualization of women is what's used to hold women down. And this is no different. This is just its latest form, and we should write about it in that way. And these people that are doing this should be held accountable; we're not the butt of the joke. They're the problem. And we need to take action."

The first incident was reported on July 29 during a matchup between the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries. Most recently, a toy landed near Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, who has openly criticized these actions on social media and has been subjected to misogynistic remarks from fans and media alike.

Reeve is not alone in her condemnation. Los Angeles Sparks coach Lynne Roberts described the situation as "ridiculous, it's dumb, it's stupid. It's also dangerous," referencing an incident where Cunningham was nearly struck while on the court against the Sparks.

The WNBA has responded with a statement emphasizing that "the safety and well-being of everyone in our arenas is a top priority for our league." They noted that any objects thrown onto the court or in seating areas pose safety risks for players, officials, and fans. The league's policy dictates that any fan who intentionally throws an object will face immediate ejection and a minimum one-year ban, along with potential arrest and prosecution by local authorities.

As this issue continues to unfold, it raises critical questions about respect and safety within sports environments, particularly for women athletes who are often subjected to inappropriate behavior.