A cryptocurrency group known for a meme coin named Green Dildo Coin has taken responsibility for a series of disruptive incidents involving neon green sex toys at WNBA games. A spokesperson for the group, who remained anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the actions, stated in an interview that these were intended as “lighthearted pranks” to draw attention to the launch of their coin, which occurred on July 28.
The incidents began on July 29, the day after the coin’s launch, when a sex toy was thrown onto the court during a game featuring the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream. Since then, similar disruptions have taken place at several other games, including matchups involving the Chicago Sky, Los Angeles Sparks, and Phoenix Mercury. Most recently, in a game between the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream, one toy even reached the playing surface.
While the group argues that their actions are in line with feats seen across various sports—where fans often engage in disruptive behavior to create a spectacle—many players and coaches have expressed their disapproval. Chicago Sky center Elizabeth Williams criticized the actions as immature, calling for the perpetrators to “grow up.” Similarly, Los Angeles Sparks coach Lynne Roberts emphasized the dangers posed by such actions, underscoring the importance of player safety and respect for the game.
Law enforcement has become involved, with two arrests made in connection to the incidents. An 18-year-old named Kaden Lopez admitted to throwing an object at a game while apologizing for what he described as a “stupid prank.” The group clarified that those arrested were not associated with their effort to promote the coin and expressed intentions to shift their promotional tactics to lighter and more tasteful forms of engagement.
The spokesperson noted that while they plan to continue their promotional activities, they will be focusing on areas with higher foot traffic instead of WNBA events.
Though the group claims the pranks are meant to be fun, they have received backlash from fans, players, and coaches alike, calling attention to the potential risks and the disrespect shown to the athletes and the sport. As this story unfolds, it remains to be seen how authorities and organizations will address such disruptive acts at professional sporting events moving forward.