WNBA Finals Teams Decline to Explain 3 Anthem Absences as Rulebook Still Requires Players to Stand
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Oct 23
WNBA Finals Teams Decline to Explain 3 Anthem Absences as Rulebook Still Requires Players to Stand
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Oct 23
Summary
Three straight WNBA Finals games have featured Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries players leaving the floor before the national anthem and returning seconds after it ends, with coaches and players declining to explain why.
Natalie Nakase called Golden State’s absence part of a pregame routine, saying she did not know who started it, while Gabby Williams denied it was a protest and said the practice had existed for about seven years.
Rhyne Howard said she has not been on the floor for the anthem during her Atlanta tenure but stands when representing Team USA, and Atlanta coach Karl Smesko refused further comment on the Finals-stage absences.
The scrutiny is sharpened by the WNBA’s 2026 rulebook, which still says players, coaches and trainers must stand in a dignified posture during the anthem, even though the AP reported the league suspended anthem protocols in 2017.
Neither the WNBA, NBA nor the teams’ front offices responded to requests for clarification on current enforcement, possible exemptions or discipline, leaving the policy and the teams’ rationale unresolved before Game 4.