Valkyries Secure Dramatic Win Over Dream Amid Controversial Incident

The Golden State Valkyries celebrated a significant victory against the Atlanta Dream on October 31, 2023. The match concluded with Cecilia Zandalasini scoring a game-winning shot just three seconds before the final buzzer, securing a thrilling 77-75 win. However, the game was marred by an unusual and concerning incident when a fan threw a sex toy onto the court during a crucial moment of play.

Unfolding Events in Atlanta

As the game neared its climax, the score was tied at 75, and the Valkyries were attempting to regain control with under a minute to play. In this tense atmosphere, an object—later identified as a bright green sex toy—was hurled onto the court. This unexpected interruption occurred as Veronica Burton was maneuvering for a shot, with the toy landing near the free-throw line.

Despite the distraction, the referees allowed the game to continue for a few seconds before halting play during a dead ball situation. A police officer subsequently retrieved the object, which was later taken away in a plastic bag and covered with a towel, according to reports from Meghan L. Hall of USA Today.

Following the incident, players and coaching staff expressed their concerns regarding player safety. Zandalasini remarked, “First of all, it was super dangerous. When we found out what it was, I guess we started laughing. I’ve never seen anything like that.” The incident sparked widespread discussion on social media, overshadowing the Valkyries’ hard-fought victory.

Reactions and Safety Concerns

The Valkyries and their supporters were visibly shaken by the event, particularly as it occurred during a high-stakes moment in the game. Hayes, another player from the Valkyries, expressed frustration, noting, “One of our players almost got hit with it, so yeah, that’s very dangerous.” The players were left to navigate the confusion that arose from the unexpected situation.

On the broadcast, Valkyries color commentator Morgan Ragan criticized the officiating crew for allowing play to continue after the object was thrown. She stated, “As a player, you want to feel protected. You don’t know what’s going on, and then there’s confusion on that final possession.”

Head coach Natalie Nakase echoed Ragan’s sentiments, arguing that the situation warranted an immediate timeout to address player safety. “I thought that would have been an automatic timeout. Let’s reset. Let’s make sure everyone’s OK. You don’t want the object on the ground and then someone is dribbling past it,” she said.

As of the evening of the game, no arrests or ejections had been reported concerning the incident. The Atlanta Dream and the WNBA did not provide comments regarding the event when contacted.

Despite the disruption, the Valkyries managed to secure their position in the league with this victory. Zandalasini’s last-second shot not only clinched the win but also highlighted the resilience of the team in the face of unexpected challenges.

As the season progresses, the Valkyries will undoubtedly reflect on this game as a testament to their determination, while also considering the implications of fan behavior on player safety in professional sports.