Full Breakdown
Game 2 of the 2026 WNBA Finals: Anthem Protocol, Turnovers and Angel Reese’s Historic Performance
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On Monday night, the Atlanta Dream defeated the Golden State Valkyries 79-65 to even the best-of-seven series. Both teams left the court before the national anthem, a practice that has become common after the league suspended its anthem protocol in 2017. The game featured a season-high 19 Valkyries turnovers and a 30-point, 16-rebound double-double by Dream forward Angel Reese, making her the youngest player ever to record at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in a WNBA postseason game.
Background & Context – Anthem Policy
A 2017 memo suspended the protocol to allow teams to support victims of racially charged violence in Charlottesville, Virginia. The league has not issued a new directive, and the WNBA declined comment when asked about the current anthem policy. As a result, teams such as the Valkyries and Dream continue to exit the floor before the anthem, while a few clubs (e.g., Indiana, Minnesota) remain on the court.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Atlanta Dream 79, Golden State Valkyries 65.
- Angel Reese: 30 points (10-of-16), 16 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, 1 steal.
- Rhyne Howard (Dream): WNBA Finals record six steals.
- Valkyries turnovers: 19 total, including 14 steals by the Dream.
- Valkyries shooting: 34.4% field-goal, 7-for-24 from three.
- Dream free-throw shooting: 30-of-35 (86%).
Official Statements & Responses
The league’s rulebook still mandates a standing posture for the anthem, but the 2017 suspension left enforcement ambiguous. Dream coach Karl Smesko praised his squad’s hustle and defensive pressure, saying the Dream “out-hustled” the Valkyries in the crucial third quarter.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This environment is tough to play in. Shoutout to the fans. Shoutout my team, though,” — Angel Reese, Atlanta Dream
- “I genuinely feel like (turnovers) dictated the entire game,” — Golden State Valkyries
- “We were just a little too loose with the ball,” — Veronica Burton, Valkyries guard
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact wording of the league’s anthem rule and whether it applies to players on the court or the entire team. The rulebook’s language is ambiguous, and the league has not issued a clarified policy since the 2017 suspension, leaving teams to decide independently.
Why It Matters
The anthem controversy highlights the WNBA’s tension between tradition and social-justice activism. The turnover disparity underscores how defensive intensity and ball security can swing a Finals matchup, especially in a series where both teams rely heavily on defense. Reese’s performance also raises her profile as a generational talent and may influence future marketing and viewership for the league.
What’s Next
Game 3 will move to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Wednesday, where the Dream will look to protect their home-court advantage and the Valkyries will aim to reduce turnovers and improve shot selection. Both coaches indicated that film review and adjustments will focus on defensive matchups and ball-handling discipline.
