In one of the most bizarre moments in recent sports history, Atalanta Dreams Sky star Angel Reese was struck in the face by a thrown dildo during the second quarter of the Atlanta Dreams’ preseason matchup against the Washington Mystics on Sunday afternoon at State Farm Arena.
The incident occurred with 4:38 remaining in the second quarter, as Reese was setting up in the post on the left block. A bright pink adult toy sailed from the upper deck, striking Reese squarely on the cheek before bouncing onto the court. Play was immediately stopped as officials and medical staff rushed to check on the two-time All-Star.
Reese, visibly shaken but unharmed beyond a minor red mark, stayed in the game after a brief timeout. She later finished with 18 points and 12 rebounds in a 92-81 Dreams victory, though the event overshadowed the on-court action.
“I’ve been hit with a lot of things in my career—elbows, jerseys, even a water bottle once—but this is a first,” Reese said postgame, laughing it off. “I’m good. Just glad it wasn’t a heavier model. Security needs to step up though. That thing had some velocity.”
Witnesses described a chaotic scene in Section 212 where a small group of rowdy fans were escorted out. Arena security confirmed they are reviewing footage and working with local authorities. No arrests have been made yet, but the league is expected to issue a statement on fan conduct.
The WNBA, already navigating increased spotlight this season, now faces fresh questions about spectator behavior during preseason contests. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed the matter briefly: “Player safety is paramount. We will not tolerate disruptions that endanger our athletes.”
Reese’s teammates rallied around her, with one Sky veteran joking in the locker room that “Angel attracts all kinds of attention, but this is next level.” Social media exploded within minutes, with the clip trending under hashtags like #DildoGate and #ReeseResilient.
Despite the absurdity, Reese maintained her trademark poise. “Basketball is entertainment, but let’s keep it professional,” she added. “See y’all next game—hopefully without flying objects.”
The incident marks the latest strange occurrence in a league that continues to grow its audience in unpredictable ways. Preseason play continues this week with heightened security measures anticipated across all venues.