WNBA Teams Skip National Anthem

Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries left court before national anthem in WNBA Finals Games 1 and 2.

Riley Gaines Calls for Consequences

Riley Gaines argues athletes who skip anthem should face Olympic eligibility consequences.

“it’s my personal opinion that if you kneel for the flag and what it represents, you shouldn’t be able to represent the usa at the olympics”

Gaines on Patriotism and Responsibility

Gaines says patriotism requires respect for anthem, not political allegiance.

“the american flag and our national anthem do not represent whichever political party or administration happens to be in power”

Players' Olympic Eligibility

Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard are on Team USA’s 2026 Women’s World Cup roster.

“angel reese and rhyne howard were both named to team usa’s 2026 women’s world cup roster”

Sage Steele Warns of Fan Backlash

Sage Steele says anthem absences could turn fans away forever.

“and i just hope they realize that this constant lack of respect is going to turn fans away forever”

WNBA Rulebook Requirement

WNBA rulebook requires players to stand during national anthem.

“the wnba’s 2026 official rulebook includes a provision calling for players, coaches and trainers to stand and line up in a dignified posture along the sidelines or foul line during the national anthem”

No Response from WNBA

WNBA and teams have not answered questions about anthem absences.

“neither finals team nor the wnba has answered outkick’s questions about the anthem absences”

Ongoing Debate

Players who skip anthem face calls to lose Olympic eligibility.

“those players should be ineligible to play on the u.s. women’s olympic basketball team”