WNBA Players Continue Pre-Anthem Court Exits Amidst Political Criticism

Players from the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries have continued to leave the court before the national anthem, a practice that has become a recurring theme during the WNBA finals. This action has drawn criticism from US Senator JD Vance, who described the walk-offs as "disgraceful."

According to the league's official rulebook, players are required to stand and line up during the national anthem. However, for the third consecutive game, both teams were observed heading toward the locker room shortly before the anthem was performed at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta.

Senator Vance expressed his disapproval, stating, "I think that you should not express some criticism of a public policy of a given politician by disrespecting the country writ large." He added, "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. They have a lot to be grateful to the United States for."

Vance further commented on the spirit of national pride, saying, "Whether you were born in the United States or whether you came here by choice, this is your country. And I think that we're all meant to love it."

The Atlanta Dream has a documented history of protests during the national anthem. In 2020, the team notably remained off the court during the anthem amidst the George Floyd protests. At the time, their game notes included a statement from the WNBPA explaining their reasons, asserting that "the anthem does not represent freedom, justice and liberty for all Americans."