WNBA Finals Teams Continue to Skip National Anthem, Defying League Rules
Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries remained off the court during the anthem for the third consecutive WNBA Finals game, despite league regulations.
The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries continued their practice of leaving the court during the national anthem for the third consecutive WNBA Finals game. The teams were absent from the court during the anthem before Game 3 on Wednesday night at State Farm Arena, mirroring their actions in Games 1 and 2.
League Rules and Unanswered Questions
The WNBA's 2026 official rulebook states that players, coaches, and trainers are required to "stand and line up in a dignified posture" along the sidelines or foul line during the national anthem. Despite this mandate, neither team nor the WNBA has provided an explanation for the repeated absences.
OutKick had previously inquired with the WNBA, the Dream, and the Valkyries regarding the anthem absences following Game 1. Follow-up questions were sent on Sunday and Tuesday, seeking to understand if any disciplinary action was planned, if teams had received exemptions, or if they would be instructed to be present for Game 3.
The inquiries also extended to the NBA league office. The NBA's Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Mike Bass was asked on Tuesday if the league office plays a role in overseeing or enforcing the WNBA's anthem provision. Questions were also posed regarding whether NBA Commissioner Adam Silver or other league officials had discussed the absences with WNBA leadership, if any guidance had been provided, and if teams would be instructed to be present for the anthem.
The NBA did not respond to these inquiries. OutKick also attempted to raise the issue during WNBA Finals press conferences, attending multiple sessions for coaches and media, but was not called upon to ask questions.
On-Court Absences Continue
During Wednesday's game in Atlanta, players jogged off the court shortly before the anthem began and returned only after its conclusion. This pattern has persisted throughout the Finals series, regardless of the venue.
Beyond the players, two individuals seated in an area designated for WNBA public relations staff also remained seated during the anthem on Wednesday. When asked for an explanation afterward, neither provided one. Their identities and roles are still being determined.
As the WNBA Finals proceed, the league's rulebook requirement for players to be present during the national anthem has been consistently overlooked by both participating teams, without any official explanation from the league.