Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries skip national anthem for third straight WNBA Finals game

The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries have now skipped the national anthem for three consecutive WNBA Finals games, despite a rulebook requirement for players to stand. The WNBA, both teams, and the NBA have not responded to inquiries about these absences. Even individuals in PR staff areas remained seated during the anthem.

• Both the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries players were off the court during the national anthem for Game 3 of the WNBA Finals.
• This marks the third consecutive game in the Finals where players from both teams were absent during the anthem.
• The WNBA’s 2026 rulebook states players, coaches, and trainers are to “stand and line up in a dignified posture” during the anthem.
• The WNBA, teams, and NBA have not provided answers to questions about the absences.
• Two individuals in areas designated for WNBA public relations staff also remained seated during the anthem.
• Questions about the anthem absences were posed to the WNBA, teams, and the NBA league office, with no responses received.
• Attempts to ask about the anthem during press conferences were unsuccessful as the questioner was not called upon.