Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries vanished from the court before the national anthem at Game 1 of the WNBA Finals Saturday at Chase Center, then returned within seconds of its conclusion.
Dream and Valkyries Skip Anthem
Both squads warmed up on the floor, then disappeared for roughly two minutes while the “Star‑Spangled Banner” played, before jogging back onto the court as soon as the singer finished.
Angel Reese, the Dream’s rookie star, has made a habit of staying off the floor during the anthem, a pattern that dates back to her college days.
Atlanta’s 2020 game notes revealed a players‑union statement declaring the anthem “does not represent freedom, justice and liberty for all Americans,” signaling a continued protest stance.
The timing of Saturday’s anthem absence remained unclear, and neither team offered an immediate explanation.
LSU coach Kim Mulkey explained in 2024 that her team left the court at the 12‑minute mark before tip‑off as part of a pregame routine, emphasizing the decision was not intentional.
“I’m sorry, listen, that’s nothing intentionally done,” Mulkey told reporters after the Elite Eight game.
WNBA officials have not clarified whether the Dream and Valkyries followed a similar routine or acted on a separate directive.
Critics argue that leagues treating politics as a primary focus create avoidable disruptions, and they urge teams to incorporate anthem participation into their pregame preparations.
Taking a few moments to honor the country while competing for a championship is a reasonable expectation, and any routine that excludes it should be revised.
Dan Zaksheske reports for OutKick.
