WNBA Finals Marred by National Anthem Absence
Players retreating to locker rooms during the anthem in Game 1 draws criticism and raises questions about the league's growth strategy.
The WNBA Finals commenced with an "embarrassing spectacle" as players from both the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream retreated to their locker rooms during the playing of the National Anthem before Game 1 on October 17, 2026. The teams returned to the court only after the anthem concluded.
This practice of players skipping the anthem dates back to the 2020 protests following the murder of George Floyd, but has largely faded from other professional sports. Notably, players Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard stood for the anthem during the FIBA World Cup Final the previous month.
Amidst the anthem controversy, fans at the game reportedly heckled Jennifer Sey, founder of XX-XY Athletics and an advocate against men in women's sports, and her companions, with attempts made to involve security. This incident follows what the source describes as the "harassment of Caitlin Clark," a player credited with drawing significant new viewership to the league.
The article criticizes the league's actions, suggesting that despite aspirations for broader success, the WNBA is alienating potential fans. It posits that the league's "wokery" and treatment of its audience may hinder its growth, contrasting this with the idea that "everyone watches women's sports."