WNBA Finals Anthem Protest Continues; VP Vance Criticizes Players

Players from the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream continued their protest by leaving the court before the playing of the national anthem during Game 3 of the WNBA Finals. The teams were seen heading to the locker room prior to the anthem, a move that has occurred before each game of the series.

Vice President JD Vance commented on the ongoing protest, calling it "disgraceful" in an interview on "Arroyo Grande." He stated that players should not criticize public policy by disrespecting the country and that the athletes should show more gratitude for their opportunities.

"I think that you should not express some criticism of a public policy of a given politician by disrespecting the country writ large," Vance said. "I mean, those women who play for the WNBA, think of the public safety, think of the incredible wealth and privilege, the amazing jobs that they have."

Vance suggested that a greater "spirit of gratitude" would lead to greater happiness for the players and prevent them from offending others.

The WNBA's official rulebook requires teams to stand and line up during the performance of the national anthem. The Atlanta Dream previously did not participate in the anthem in 2020, citing that "the anthem does not represent freedom, justice and liberty for all Americans." The Golden State Valkyries, in their second season, have not had a history of anthem protests prior to this series.