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The WNBA national anthem controversy continued Wednesday night as Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries players once again left the court before the performance, marking the third consecutive game in the WNBA Finals in which both teams were absent.
The latest incident occurred on October 21, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta before Game 3. Players from both teams jogged off the floor moments before the anthem began and returned shortly after it ended. The repeated routine has created growing questions about league policy, team communication and whether any discipline could follow.
WNBA National Anthem Absence Continues Despite Rulebook Language
The WNBA’s 2026 official rulebook includes a provision stating that players, coaches and trainers are expected to “stand and line up in a dignified posture” along the sidelines or on the foul line during the national anthem.
Despite that language, the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries were not on the court during the anthem in Games 1, 2 or 3. The teams’ actions have drawn attention because the absences occurred during the league’s championship series, one of the most visible events on the WNBA calendar.
OutKick reported that the WNBA, the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries had not answered questions about the repeated absences. The questions included whether either team had received an exemption, whether the league had issued instructions before Game 3 and whether disciplinary action was being considered.
League Silence Fuels Fresh Questions
The NBA was also contacted before Game 3. Questions directed to NBA Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Mike Bass asked whether the NBA had any role in overseeing or enforcing the WNBA’s anthem provision.
The inquiry also asked whether NBA Commissioner Adam Silver or league officials had discussed the matter with WNBA leadership. According to OutKick, the NBA did not respond.
The lack of a public explanation has left fans and observers to wonder whether the rule is mandatory, symbolic or subject to private exemptions. Without comment from the league or the teams, the situation remains unresolved as the Finals continue.
WNBA Finals Anthem Routine Draws Wider Scrutiny
The players were not the only people observed remaining away from the court during Wednesday’s performance. Two individuals seated in an area designated for WNBA public relations staff remained in their seats during the anthem. When asked afterward why they had not stood, neither person provided an explanation.
OutKick said it could not immediately confirm the identities or specific roles of the two staff members. Their presence added another layer to the debate over how the league handles anthem-related expectations inside its arenas.
The issue has also become a point of discussion beyond the teams involved. Vice President JD Vance previously condemned the WNBA Finals walkouts as “disgraceful” and argued that players should show more gratitude. The comments added political attention to what had initially been a league and team policy question.
OutKick reporter Dan Zaksheske also described repeated attempts to ask about the anthem during Finals media sessions. He said he raised his hand during five pregame and postgame sessions on Saturday, four coaches’ sessions Monday and two coaches’ pregame sessions Wednesday, but was not called on during any of the 11 sessions.
What Happens Before Game 4?
With three games completed, the central question is whether the WNBA will address the apparent rule violation before the next contest. The league could offer an explanation, clarify the policy or continue declining to comment.
The controversy also raises broader questions about consistency. If the rulebook calls for players and team personnel to stand and line up, fans may expect the league to explain how the provision is enforced. On the other hand, if teams are permitted to remain off the court, supporters may want that exception formally clarified.
For now, the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries have maintained the same pregame routine throughout the series. The teams leave the floor before the anthem and return afterward, while the WNBA, NBA and both organizations have offered no public explanation.
As the championship series moves forward, the anthem issue is likely to remain part of the conversation. The next game could provide another opportunity for the league to respond—or another moment of silence from officials as the debate continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the WNBA national anthem before Game 3?
Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries players left the court shortly before the anthem began and returned after it ended at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
Was Game 3 the first time the teams missed the anthem?
No. The teams were also absent during the national anthem before Games 1 and 2, making Game 3 their third consecutive absence.
What does the WNBA rulebook say about the anthem?
The 2026 WNBA rulebook says players, coaches and trainers should stand and line up in a dignified posture along the sidelines or on the foul line during the anthem.
Has the WNBA explained the teams’ absences?
According to OutKick, the WNBA, NBA, Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries had not responded to questions about the absences, exemptions or possible discipline.
Were other people seated during the anthem?
Two people in an area designated for WNBA public relations staff were also observed remaining seated during the Game 3 anthem.
