Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham has voiced her disapproval of the national anthem protocols observed by the two WNBA Finals teams, the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream. Cunningham stated in a recent podcast interview that she disagrees with the teams' practice of leaving the court during the national anthem.
Cunningham, who has previously faced controversy for her views on transgender participation in women's sports, shared her perspective with podcaster Theo Von. "This has been happening throughout the whole season. This isn't like anything new, people are getting mad about it now but it's happened the whole season," she said. "I just feel like personally... I am grateful and I support the people who serve."
She elaborated on her feelings, emphasizing her personal connection to military service and the freedoms enjoyed by Americans. "We have family members who have served and they're over there doing that are unimaginable for us to out here living our dreams and having the freedoms that we live. Anytime that I can shout out our veterans and the people who are currently fighting for us to live in the best country, I'm going to show that support, I'm going to give them love," Cunningham stated. "That's where I stand. That doesn't mean that's where everyone stands and if it's right, wrong, whatever. I take a lot of pride in where I come from and I'm proud to be an American citizen."
The WNBA Finals teams have left the court for the national anthem before all five games of the current championship series. Both teams have returned to the court after the anthem concludes. The WNBA has not issued a statement regarding potential penalties for these actions.
Representatives for the Valkyries and Dream have indicated that leaving the court is part of their established pregame routine. Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase and player Gabby Williams offered this explanation when asked about the practice.
This decision has drawn criticism from various public figures. Former President Donald Trump questioned the move at a rally, suggesting it could harm the league's recent positive momentum. "You know, they'll destroy themselves before they get started. Because they just started to do good... They leave the court when the national anthems play. What's that all about?"
Vice President JD Vance also commented on the matter, stating, "I think that you should not express some criticism of a public policy of a given politician by disrespecting the country writ large." He added, "I mean, those women who play for the WNBA, think of the public safety, think of the incredible wealth and privilege, the amazing jobs they have."
While WNBA teams have previously opted out of pregame anthem rituals, the heightened attention on the WNBA Finals has brought the issue back into public discourse.