In one of the most bizarre moments in WNBA preseason history, Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron was struck in the face by a thrown dildo during Sunday night’s exhibition game against the Minnesota Lynx at Capital One Arena.
The incident occurred late in the fourth quarter with the Mystics trailing 82-76. Citron, who had just drained a deep three-pointer to cut the deficit, was jogging back on defense when a bright pink, adult novelty item sailed out of the stands and smacked her squarely on the cheek. The 22-year-old Ohio State product stumbled briefly but quickly regained her composure, picking up the object with a mix of confusion and disbelief before handing it to a courtside official.
Arena security immediately moved in, escorting several fans from the lower bowl while the game was briefly paused. Citron, visibly shaken but unharmed, returned to the court to a standing ovation from the stunned crowd. She finished with 14 points, 5 assists, and what will now be remembered as the most unusual “assist” of her young career.
Mystics head coach Eric Thibault addressed the media afterward with a mix of frustration and dark humor. “We prepare for physical play, but nobody trains for flying… objects. Sonia handled it like a pro. She’s tough. Still, this is unacceptable. Fans come to watch basketball, not adult toy warfare.”
Lynx star Napheesa Collier expressed shock: “I’ve never seen anything like that in my life. Hope Sonia’s okay — that thing looked heavy.”
The WNBA released a statement condemning the incident and promising a full investigation, including enhanced security measures for the regular season. No arrests were immediately reported, though footage from arena cameras is being reviewed.
Citron herself took the high road in a quick post-game comment: “Basketball is my passion. Tonight was weird, but I’m focused on the season ahead. Let’s keep the court clear of surprises.”
The Mystics fell 89-81 in the preseason finale. While the loss stings, the night will likely be remembered less for the final score and more for the moment a rookie’s poise turned a ridiculous situation into an instant viral legend.