Phoenix Mercury star Alyssa Thomas found herself at the center of one of the WNBA’s most outrageous moments yet when a flying dildo struck her during Wednesday night’s clash against the Golden State Valkyries.
With just under four minutes remaining in the third quarter and the Mercury leading by eight, play suddenly halted as a bright neon object arced from the upper stands and landed squarely against Thomas’s left shoulder. The six-time All-Star spun in surprise, staring down at the lime-green sex toy that had bounced to the floor near the free-throw line.
Referees immediately blew the whistle. Security scrambled onto the court while players from both teams exchanged bewildered looks and barely suppressed laughter. A police officer carefully collected the object and escorted it off the floor as the arena erupted in a mix of shock, giggles, and scattered boos directed at the stands.
Thomas, known for her tough, physical style of play, handled the absurd interruption with characteristic composure. After a brief conversation with officials, she simply shook her head, adjusted her jersey, and prepared to inbound the ball once the court was cleared. Teammates could be seen chuckling on the bench, while Valkyries players struggled to keep straight faces.
The incident is the latest in a string of similar disruptions that have plagued WNBA arenas this season, though this marks the first time a player has been directly struck. League officials have not yet announced any disciplinary action against the fan responsible, but security footage is reportedly under review.
Despite the bizarre delay, the Mercury went on to secure the victory. Thomas finished with her usual all-around contributions, proving once again that even a flying dildo couldn’t knock the veteran off her game.