# WNBA Players Skip National Anthem in Finals

> WNBA teams skip national anthem twice in finals, sparking backlash.
- Title: WNBA Players Skip National Anthem in Finals · OutKick
- Summary: WNBA teams skip national anthem twice in finals, sparking backlash. Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries skipped national anthem during Game 2 of WNBA…
- Keywords: wnba, atlanta dream, golden state valkyries, national anthem, wnba finals, chase center, san francisco, october 19 2026, national anthem rule, league rules, news, politics
- Source: OutKick — https://foxnews.com/outkick-sports/outkick-readers-blast-wnba-players-hiding-finals-national-anthem
- Author: Joe Kinsey
- Published: 2026-10-20T00:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: wnba, atlanta dream, golden state valkyries, national anthem, wnba finals, chase center, san francisco, october 19 2026, national anthem rule, league rules, news, politics
## WNBA Teams Skip National Anthem
Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries exited court before national anthem in Game 2 of WNBA Finals.
## National Anthem Rule Broken Twice
WNBA players skipped anthem for second consecutive game despite league rule requiring attendance.
## Reader Backlash
OutKick readers criticized WNBA for disrespecting national anthem and failing to enforce rules.
## Reader Comments
Readers called WNBA a political activist group, not a women's basketball league, and demanded consequences.
## Specific Criticisms
Readers demanded WNBA ban teams, fine players, or remove league from u.s. arenas for skipping anthem.
## League Response
WNBA has not punished teams for skipping national anthem despite rule violations.
## Public Reaction
Many viewers switched channels after seeing teams skip national anthem.
## League Rule
WNBA rule requires players to stand and line up during national anthem performance.
## Event Date
Game 2 of WNBA Finals occurred on october 19 2026 at chase center in san francisco.
## Key takeaway

Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries skipped national anthem during Game 2 of WNBA Finals, drawing criticism for breaking league rules.