WNBA Coaches Sidestep Questions on National Anthem Absence Amidst Political Scrutiny
As players from the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries continue to be absent from the court during the national anthem, coaches offered minimal explanation, while former President Donald Trump criticized the league.
WNBA Finals coaches have struggled to provide clear explanations for why players from the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries have left the court during the national anthem. This practice has drawn criticism from fans and political figures, including former President Donald Trump.
Ahead of Game 4 of the Finals, both Dream head coach Karl Smesko and Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase were questioned about the pregame routine. Nakase stated that it has been their team's practice for two years and that their focus remains on the game. When pressed on who made the decision, she said, "I really don't know. I understand your question, I'm not trying to not answer your question - it's just part of our pre-game."
Smesko, when asked about the situation, indicated his focus was solely on the Finals and preparing to defeat the Golden State Valkyries, declining to comment further.
Dream guard Rhyne Howard downplayed the significance of the discourse, noting that she has not been on the court for the anthem during her tenure in Atlanta. She contrasted this with her participation when playing for the USA national team, stating, "Yes, I love the country that I play for and I love what we have here. But I don't think that's what needs to be talked about."
The WNBA's official rulebook reportedly requires players to stand and line up during the national anthem. However, players from both teams have been observed leaving the court before "The Star-Spangled Banner" is performed and returning afterward.
Following the practice during Game 3, former President Donald Trump commented on the issue at a rally in Iowa. "What's going on with the Women's NBA?" Trump asked, suggesting the league was risking self-destruction by alienating fans. He drew parallels to the backlash the NFL faced when players protested during the anthem, warning that "people stopped watching the games."
Trump specifically mentioned Caitlin Clark, a popular player whose involvement has been credited with boosting the league's viewership, suggesting the WNBA should heed the lessons from the NFL's experience with anthem protests.