Full Breakdown
Anthem Absences in the 2026 WNBA Finals Spark Rulebook Debate
By Drooid · · How we work
Background & Context
The league suspended enforcement of the anthem-presence provision in 2017 after the Charlottesville rally, and the practice of staying off-court during the anthem became common during the 2020 bubble season. Both the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries keep players in the locker room while the anthem is performed—a routine the Dream says has been in place for several years and the Valkyries describe as a two-year practice since joining the league in 2025.
Core Event: Teams Leaving the Court for the Anthem
From the series opener through the third game of the Finals, players from both franchises jogged off the floor seconds before the “Star-Spangled Banner” and returned after it ended. The pattern continued into the fourth game, marking a fourth straight absence. Arena staff confirmed the movements were consistent with their established pre-game preparation, not a spontaneous protest.
Official Statements & Responses
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase said the routine is “part of our pre-game” and that she “doesn’t know” who made the decision, emphasizing focus on game preparation. The WNBA, the NBA, and both teams’ front offices have not provided written responses to repeated media inquiries about league enforcement or potential disciplinary action. NBA Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Mike Bass was also contacted but did not reply by the deadline.
Data & Statistics
- The Finals series is best-of-seven; the Dream entered the fourth game with a 2–1 series lead.
- The Valkyries’ pre-game routine has been described as lasting “seven years,” though the exact origin across the players’ former teams is unclear.
- The rulebook provision remains in the 2026 edition despite the 2017 suspension of enforcement.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources agree the rulebook requires on-court presence, yet note the league suspended the protocol in 2017 and has not clarified current expectations. No official comment has been received from the WNBA regarding exemptions or discipline. The NBA’s role in enforcing the WNBA’s anthem provision is undocumented; while Mike Bass oversees communications for both leagues, his office has not responded to inquiries. This leaves a gap between the written rule and its practical application.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re just kind of focused on the Finals,” — Karl Smesko, Atlanta coach
- “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,” — Rhyne Howard
- “I’m with my staff, so I’m focused on my plays,” — Natalie Nakase, Valkyries head coach
What’s Next
The series will continue with Game 4 scheduled for October 24. Observers will watch for any league clarification or disciplinary action before that matchup.