WNBA Finals Opening Met with Fan Outrage Over National Anthem Absence

Fans expressed outrage on social media after players from the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries left the court prior to the national anthem before Game 1 of the WNBA Finals. The incident occurred at the Chase Center as Bay Area artist Goapele performed "The Star-Spangled Banner." Videos of the empty court during the anthem circulated online, prompting a barrage of criticism from viewers.

Commenters on platforms like X decried the players' absence, with one user calling it "disgraceful" and suggesting the anthem should be replayed until players stand. Another expressed disgust, stating, "Any decent commissioner would fine both teams." The sentiment was echoed by sports broadcaster Emily Austin, who lamented that "The WNBA has incredible talent and somehow manages to make everything BUT basketball the headline."

Dan Zaksheske of OutKick, who was present at the game, reported that both teams returned to the floor immediately after the anthem concluded, noting their absence lasted only for the duration of the song. The specific reasons for the players' departure from the court before the anthem were not immediately clear.

This is not the first time WNBA players have faced scrutiny regarding their conduct during the national anthem. In August, Caitlin Clark and her Indiana Fever teammates drew backlash for not placing their hands over their hearts during the anthem, while Sophie Cunningham was praised for performing the gesture. In 2020, the Atlanta Dream's game notes included a statement from the WNBA players' union asserting that "the anthem does not represent freedom, justice and liberty for all Americans."