In one of the most bizarre interruptions in recent WNBA history, Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas was hit by a flying sex toy during the second quarter of Tuesday night’s matchup against the Seattle Storm at PHX Arena. The incident, which briefly halted play, has since gone viral and sparked widespread debate about fan behavior and arena security.
The game was tied at 42-42 with under four minutes remaining in the second quarter when a bright green object sailed from the upper deck toward the court. Thomas, who had been dominating with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists up to that point, was setting up in the paint during a Storm possession. The object struck her shoulder before bouncing onto the floor. Thomas initially recoiled in surprise, then picked up the item with a mix of disbelief and amusement, holding it aloft briefly as the crowd erupted in a mix of gasps and laughter.
Referees immediately called a timeout as arena staff rushed to remove the object. Thomas was checked by the Mercury’s medical team but returned to the game shortly after, showing the toughness that has defined her career. “I’ve taken elbows, knees, and hard fouls before, but this? This was a first,” Thomas joked postgame. “We’re out here trying to play elite basketball, and someone decides to launch their… toy. Wild night.”
The Storm went on to win a competitive 89-82 thriller, led by Jewell Loyd’s 28 points. However, the dildo incident overshadowed the on-court action. Video footage spread rapidly across social media, with fans creating memes and debates ranging from “harmless prank” to “dangerous distraction that could injure players.”
This marks the latest in a troubling string of sex toy throws across the league in recent weeks. Similar incidents have disrupted games involving the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, New York Liberty, and others, prompting the WNBA to tighten security protocols, including enhanced bag checks and increased monitoring in upper-level seating.
League officials condemned the act in a statement: “Such behavior has no place in our arenas. We are working with teams and authorities to ensure player and fan safety.” Phoenix police are reviewing security footage and have not yet made an arrest in this specific case, though prior incidents have led to charges against individuals, including an 18-year-old in an earlier Mercury game.
Thomas, a veteran known for her physical style and recent triple-double heroics, downplayed any long-term impact. “Focus on the basketball,” she said. “We’ve got a season to finish.” Coach Nikki Blue echoed the sentiment, praising her team’s composure amid the chaos.
The event has ignited conversations about the evolving (and sometimes chaotic) culture surrounding women’s basketball. While the WNBA enjoys soaring popularity, these stunts risk undermining the league’s professionalism. Fans attending future games are now being reminded: support your team with cheers, not projectiles—especially not adult ones.