Crypto Meme Coin Group Claims Responsibility for WNBA Sex Toy Disruptions
A self-identified cryptocurrency enthusiast has come forward to claim that a group linked to a crypto meme coin orchestrated recent incidents involving sex toy tosses that disrupted multiple WNBA games over the past 10 days.
The man, who spoke anonymously during a videoconference with ESPN, said the stunts were designed as a marketing gimmick for a cryptocurrency coin developed by his online community. He described the approach as “opportunistic,” targeting the WNBA due to the league’s existing controversies and media attention.
“The WNBA and all its ‘controversy’ made the league a logical target,” he said. “We wanted to really make memes funny again,” he added, explaining the group’s intention to reclaim creativity and community engagement within the crypto space. The man, known by the pseudonym Lt. Daldo Raine on social media platform X, declined to reveal further personal details or show his face during the conversation.
These incidents, involving spectators throwing sex toys onto the court during games, caught the attention of the WNBA, players, and officials. The league has been investigating these disruptions, which have forced game stoppages and raised concerns about security at events.
A spokesperson for the WNBA declined to comment directly on the group’s claims or potential security adjustments when contacted by ESPN. Meanwhile, the WNBPA (WNBA Players Association) executive director, Terri Jackson, confirmed that the players’ union has requested a formal update from the league. The league reportedly is investigating the possibility that individuals were financially incentivized or otherwise encouraged to participate in these incidents.
The news originally surfaced through USA Today, which first reported the group’s claim of responsibility. Since then, media outlets have been following the story as the WNBA navigates increased public scrutiny and works to ensure the safety and integrity of its games.
The incidents highlight the unpredictable challenges sports leagues face in the digital age, especially with groups leveraging viral moments and meme culture to spread their messages or promote products like cryptocurrencies. The WNBA has not announced any specific measures in response, but the ongoing investigation suggests heightened attention to arena security and fan behavior moving forward.
This emerging story marks a unique intersection of sports, digital culture, and crypto marketing strategies, raising questions about the impact of internet communities on live events and public perception.