WNBA Anthem Absences Spark Backlash and Fan Division

WHO:

Pro Football Network - Gabby Williams discussed the Golden State team’s absence from the court during the national anthem.

Pro Football Network - WNBA fans expressed differing views about the anthem controversy.

Fox News - Natalie Nakase and Gabby Williams cited a pregame routine in response to questions about anthem absences.

Fox News - Rhyne Howard responded to criticism concerning Team USA.

WHAT:

Fox News - Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries stayed off the court for a fourth straight WNBA Finals game during the national anthem.

Daily Mail Sports - Players from both the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries left the court during “The Star-Spangled Banner” and returned after it ended.

Pro Football Network - The article reported that Golden State stays off the court during the national anthem.

Pro Football Network - Fans debated the WNBA’s longtime pregame routine; reactions included “The Disrespect for Our Country Is Wild” and “Move On.”

Fox News - The article reported criticism over WNBA players’ and coaches’ national anthem absences and said they declined to explain those absences.

Fox News - The article reported that Nakase and Williams referred to a pregame routine, while Howard addressed criticism over Team USA.

WHERE:

Daily Mail Sports - The anthem absences involved both the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries.

Pro Football Network - The anthem absences discussed involved Golden State.

Fox News - The article discussed WNBA Finals anthem absences and criticism involving Team USA.

WHY:

Fox News - Trump urged a boycott.

Pro Football Network - Williams explained Golden State’s absence from the court by referring to the team’s pregame routine.

Fox News - Nakase and Williams cited a pregame routine when asked about anthem absences.

The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries remained off the court during the national anthem for a fourth straight WNBA Finals game, returning after “The Star-Spangled Banner” ended. The absences drew criticism, and President Trump urged a boycott. When asked about the teams’ decision, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase and player Gabby Williams referred to a pregame routine. Williams also discussed Golden State’s absence from the court. Their response did not settle the debate among WNBA fans, who expressed sharply differing views. Some objected to the players’ absence, while others urged people to move on. Criticism also focused on WNBA players and coaches who missed the anthem, with some declining to explain their absences. Atlanta Dream player Rhyne Howard responded to criticism concerning Team USA.