In one of the most bizarre moments in WNBA history, Los Angeles Sparks guard Kate Martin was hit in the face by a flying dildo during Friday night’s matchup against the Dallas Wings at Crypto.com Arena.
The incident occurred late in the second quarter with the Sparks leading 48-41. Martin, who had just drained a corner three, was jogging back on defense when the object sailed out of the stands and struck her squarely on the cheek. She immediately stopped, looked stunned, and picked up the item before handing it to a courtside official.
Arena security quickly identified and removed the fan responsible, who reportedly yelled something about “freeing the Sparks” before being escorted out. Martin, showing the composure of a seasoned pro, wiped her face, flashed a quick smirk to the crowd, and continued playing. She finished the game with 14 points, 6 assists, and what will now forever be known as the most unforgettable defensive stop of her career.
“I’ve taken elbows, knees, and even a rogue shoe before,” Martin said postgame with a laugh. “But this one’s going in the highlight reel for all the wrong reasons. Respect to the creativity, I guess? Just maybe aim for the mascot next time.”
Sparks head coach Curt Miller addressed the situation firmly: “We’re here to play basketball, not dodge… whatever that was. Our fans are passionate, but this crossed a line. Kate handled it like a champ, and we’re just glad she’s okay.”
The Dallas Wings went on to win a tightly contested game 92-89, but the postgame buzz was entirely about the viral moment. Social media exploded with memes, slow-motion replays, and a flood of dildo-related puns. The clip has already surpassed 15 million views across platforms.
League officials have promised a full investigation and vow stricter bag checks and fan screening moving forward. One anonymous WNBA source joked, “We’ve had beach balls, shirts, and even a rubber chicken before… but this is next-level.”
Martin, ever the good sport, later posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Game was fire. Face is fine. Send prayers… and maybe some better aim 😂⚡”
The Sparks host the Phoenix Mercury on Friday. Fans are already speculating whether security will be handing out metal detectors or just strongly worded warnings.