Behind the WNBA’s Recent Controversial Incidents: A Cryptocurrency Connection
Recent events at WNBA games have sparked controversy and concern as sex toys have been thrown onto the court, leading to arrests and investigations. USA TODAY Sports has identified the individuals responsible for these incidents, revealing that a group of cryptocurrency meme coin creators is behind the disruptions. Reporter Meg Hall delves into their motivations and the potential implications for the league.
- Sex toys have been thrown during several WNBA games, prompting legal action and investigations.
- While some view these as pranks, there are rising concerns about misogyny and harassment of players.
- Players and coaches have expressed anger, deeming the acts disrespectful and immature.
There is uncertainty regarding when the next incident might occur, and this presents a significant challenge for the WNBA, which is currently navigating CBA negotiations and other league matters. What began as a seemingly humorous event has escalated into a complex situation involving accusations of misogyny, conspiracy theories, and multiple law enforcement investigations. Over the past ten days, at least five WNBA games have been affected by these disruptions.
There is widespread intrigue and confusion surrounding the motives behind these acts. The trend has elicited varied reactions from players and fans, with two arrests already made. However, it remains unclear whether this is merely a viral prank or a deliberate attempt to target the WNBA and its players.
Understanding the Motives: Why Sex Toys Are Being Thrown at WNBA Games
The creators of a cryptocurrency meme coin claim responsibility for the sex toy incidents at WNBA games, with plans for further “pranks.” A group of crypto enthusiasts launched Green Dildo Coin (DILDO) in late July, intending it as a lighthearted protest against the perceived toxicity in the crypto world. Spokesperson for the group explained that the actions were not meant to disparage women’s sports but to draw attention, likening it to disruptions seen in other sports.
Despite two arrests linked to these incidents, the group’s spokesperson insists those individuals were not associated with them. Delbert Carver, 23, was arrested at a July 29 game in Atlanta, and Kaden Lopez, 18, was arrested after an August 5 incident in Phoenix. Both described their actions as pranks intended to go viral.
Incidents So Far: A Timeline of Sex Toy Throwing at WNBA Games
As of August 7, reports indicate that sex toys have been thrown at six games, starting with the July 29 incident during the Atlanta Dream’s game against the Golden State Valkyries. A fan threw a green sex toy onto the court, halting play. Subsequent incidents occurred in Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York, with similar disruptions forcing officials to pause games.
Are WNBA Players Being Targeted?
It’s possible. The incident involving player Sophie Cunningham suggests a targeted act, as she had previously warned against such actions on social media. The object appeared to be directed at her during a game shortly after her warning.
Reactions from Players and Coaches
Initially met with laughter, the situation has escalated to frustration among players and coaches:
- Elizabeth Williams, Chicago Sky Center: “It’s super disrespectful. I don’t really get the point of it. It’s really immature. Whoever is doing it needs to grow up.”
- Lynee Roberts, Los Angeles Sparks Coach: “It’s ridiculous. It’s dumb. It’s stupid. It’s also dangerous, and you know, player safety is No. 1, respecting the game, all those things.”
- Isabelle Harrison, New York Liberty Player: “I think you just have to continuously prioritize the players, because it’s obviously safety, but also just so immature to me, like, I just hate that that’s being attached to our brand and our name.”
- Diana Taurasi, Former Phoenix Mercury Star: “I would have picked that thing up and thrown it right back at them.”
Is This an Act of Misogyny?
Many observers consider these actions misogynistic. Both Cosmopolitan and Glamour have condemned the incidents as such, noting the intent to demean female players and diminish their athletic achievements.
WNBA’s Response
In response to the July 29 incident in Atlanta, the WNBA issued a statement emphasizing the importance of safety for everyone in their arenas. The league has implemented strict measures, including ejection and potential legal action, against those who disrupt games by throwing objects onto the court.
