WNBA Finals Teams Continue to Skip National Anthem, Drawing Criticism
Both the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries remained off the court for the national anthem for the fourth consecutive WNBA Finals game, a decision that has drawn criticism from political figures.
The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries continued their practice of remaining off the court during the national anthem before Game 4 of the WNBA Finals on Saturday. This marked the fourth consecutive game in the series where both teams were absent from the court during the anthem. Some fans in attendance also remained seated during the performance.
This recurring absence has drawn criticism from public figures, including former President Donald Trump, who urged fans to stop watching the WNBA, and Vice President JD Vance, who called the walkouts "disgraceful."
When asked about the reasons for their absences, Atlanta coach Karl Smesko stated, "We’re just kind of focused on the Finals," and declined further comment. Dream guard Rhyne Howard, when questioned about calls to exclude players from Team USA if they do not stand for the anthem, responded, "I don’t think I’ve been on the floor for the national anthem for any of my tenure in Atlanta, so if that’s what people are gonna look to nitpick for then so be it." She added, "Yes, I love the country that I play for and I love what we have here," but also stated that she stands for the anthem when representing Team USA internationally.
Golden State coach Natalie Nakase described the anthem absences as a pregame routine that has been in place for two years. When pressed for further details, she stated, "I really don’t know" who made the initial decision or why. Valkyries forward Gabby Williams denied that the absences are a protest, saying, "That’s been the routine for like, seven years now." Williams’ reference spans her time with multiple WNBA teams.
Historically, there have been instances of WNBA teams staying off the court during the anthem. In 2017, Los Angeles Sparks players voted to remain in the locker room during the Finals in solidarity with Black Lives Matter. Atlanta's 2020 game notes also included messaging from the players' union stating that "the anthem does not represent freedom, justice and liberty for all Americans" and that players would "continue to protest."
The WNBA’s 2026 official rulebook states that players, coaches, and trainers are expected to "stand and line up in a dignified posture" during the national anthem. However, a report from Oct. 20 indicated that the league suspended its anthem protocols in 2017, though the rule remains in the current rulebook.
Attempts by OutKick to obtain comment from the WNBA, the Atlanta Dream, and the Golden State Valkyries regarding current requirements, enforcement, and any planned discipline for these absences have gone unanswered. The league has not responded to multiple requests for comment.