Crypto Meme Coin Group Sparks Controversy with WNBA Sex Toy ‘Pranks’ as Protest Against Industry Culture

Crypto Meme Coin Group Claims Responsibility for WNBA Sex Toy ‘Pranks,’ Plans More

In a string of unusual and controversial incidents, a cryptocurrency meme coin group has taken credit for throwing neon green sex toys onto courts during multiple WNBA games as part of a coordinated protest. The group behind the stunt says their actions are intended to shine a light on what they call a "toxic" environment within the crypto world, rather than to show any disrespect toward women athletes.

A Flurry of Colorful Incidents

Over the past two weeks, at least six incidents involving the throwing of bright green sex toys have disrupted WNBA games in cities ranging from Atlanta to Los Angeles. The objects have been tossed not only onto courts but also into the stands at games featuring teams such as the Indiana Fever, Los Angeles Sparks, New York Liberty, Phoenix Mercury, Atlanta Dream, and Chicago Sky.

The latest widely reported incident occurred during a matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Los Angeles Sparks at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. These events prompted security concerns, and two individuals have been arrested in connection with the disturbances — one in Atlanta and another in Phoenix. However, the meme coin group’s spokesman said these individuals were not affiliated with them.

Statements from the Crypto Group

Speaking anonymously to USA TODAY Sports, a spokesman using the social media handle @Daldo_Raine explained that the prank began shortly after they launched “Green Dildo Coin” (DILDO), a meme cryptocurrency created as a tongue-in-cheek protest against the dominance of influencers and scammers in the crypto scene. The bright green sex toys are a physical manifestation of their meme coin’s branding and philosophy.

The spokesman stressed that the pranks were intended to be lighthearted and not harmful to athletes or fans. “We didn’t do this because we dislike women’s sports,” he said. “We wanted to create disruption — something viral — to gain a voice in crypto without having to pay influencer ‘cabs’ or sacrifice the integrity of our project.”

According to text message records obtained by USA TODAY, the group coordinated its first sex toy toss just one day after the coin’s July 28 launch. They carefully selected green sex toys to symbolize a "green candle" in trading jargon, representing price volatility—a desirable trait for traders.

Reactions and Safety Concerns

Despite the crypto group’s claims that their motives are benign, players and coaches have expressed frustration and concern. Los Angeles Sparks coach Lynne Roberts called the acts “ridiculous,” “dumb,” and “stupid,” emphasizing that player safety and respect for the game are paramount.

The WNBA declined to comment officially on these incidents or security measures moving forward.

The Broader Context of Sex Toys at Sporting Events

Throwing sex toys at sporting events is not unprecedented. Past incidents include a notorious event during a 2018 NFL game between the New England Patriots and Buffalo Bills. The current situation, however, is unique in its coordination with a cryptocurrency campaign and social media efforts to draw attention.

Meme Coins and Market Risks

Meme coins like Green Dildo Coin typically have value driven by social engagement rather than traditional supply and demand mechanisms. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission characterizes these coins as speculative assets with heightened risks.

Green Dildo Coin experienced a steep 309% increase in value over the last week, drawing over $1.3 million in 24-hour trading volume. While some observers worry this might indicate a “pump-and-dump” scheme, the group denies such intentions, instead framing their coin as a community-driven project aimed at revitalizing engagement in the crypto trenches.

What’s Next?

The meme coin group indicates they plan to continue their publicity campaign with “lighter” and “more tasteful” pranks, involving branded merchandise placed in high-profile locations. Aside from the WNBA games, they have reportedly placed green sex toys at significant spots such as the Wall Street Bull in New York City and even behind home plate at a Major League Baseball game.

“We want to shift the culture in crypto and be the 1,000 against the one,” the spokesman said, highlighting their goal of challenging the established powers within the cryptocurrency space.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Meghan L. Hall, USA TODAY