A new prediction market has been launched by Polymarket, posing the question of whether another dildo will be thrown at a Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) game by Friday. This unusual market emerges amidst a series of recent incidents where foreign objects, specifically sex toys, have disrupted WNBA games, drawing significant attention and concern.
Multiple WNBA games have been halted in recent weeks due to dildos being thrown onto the court. Incidents occurred on July 29, August 1, and August 5, 2025, with reports of further attempts. The WNBA has condemned the behavior, emphasizing player safety and announcing that individuals responsible face immediate ejection, a minimum one-year ban, and potential arrest and prosecution. Players like Sophie Cunningham have publicly expressed concerns, stating, "Stop throwing dildos on the court… you’re going to hurt one of us."
Polymarket, a prominent cryptocurrency-based prediction market, allows users to bet on the outcomes of future events across various categories, including sports, politics, and current affairs. Operating on blockchain technology, it enables users to buy and sell shares in predicted outcomes, with successful predictions yielding financial returns. The platform aims to aggregate collective intelligence to provide real-time probabilities for events.
The creation of such a specific market by Polymarket highlights the intersection of unusual fan behavior and the growing prediction market industry. While Polymarket has faced past regulatory scrutiny, including a 2022 fine from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and restrictions on US customers, it has continued to expand its offerings. The market reflects a unique response to a bizarre and recurring issue impacting the WNBA, turning a disruptive trend into a speculative opportunity.