During the WNBA Finals on Monday night in San Francisco, players from the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries left the court before the national anthem performed by Alanis Morissette. This marks the second consecutive game where players did not participate in the anthem, raising concerns and criticisms regarding league rules.
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The WNBA has remained silent on the issue, despite a rule requiring players to attend the national anthem performance. This situation has prompted significant backlash from OutKick readers, many of whom are calling for accountability.
One reader expressed frustration, suggesting that the WNBA players mistakenly view themselves as rebels, noting that true leadership requires sacrifice and dedication rather than chaos. Another reader proposed a radical idea of a double disqualification for the teams, arguing no champion should be recognized this year.
A female coach shared her disappointment, claiming the league has failed women by prioritizing agendas over the sport, stating that the WNBA should focus on athleticism and professionalism rather than personal issues.
Many comments reflected dissatisfaction with the league’s direction, with one critic labeling the WNBA a “political activist organization” rather than a true sports league, and another calling for harsh penalties for players who disregard the anthem rules.
Further remarks encapsulated a sense of betrayal toward the league and its perceived lack of respect for national traditions, with suggestions including removing the league’s presence from American arenas altogether. There were also calls for penalties, including fines and suspensions for repeat offenses related to the anthem.
Overall, it appears that the anthem controversy has sparked a wave of frustration among fans and readers, who feel the league is straying from its core purpose of promoting women's professional basketball.