WNBA Finals Tied at 2-2 Amid National Anthem Row and Political Outrage

The Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries are tied at two games apiece in the WNBA finals following a 67-62 victory by Golden State. OutKick, Fox's sports platform, ignited a fresh debate by highlighting that players from both teams left the court during the pre-game national anthem sung by Crystal Renee at State Farm Arena. This protest sparked conservative outrage, which Donald Trump echoed by calling for a boycott of women's basketball and attacking LeBron James on Truth Social for appearing to practice his golf swing during the anthem at a Philadelphia 76ers game. James dismissed the remarks, and the WNBA noted that players have not stood on the court for the anthem for years.

Reactions

Golden State center Kiah Stokes stated that her team is ignoring the noise by staying off social media and focusing on staff and teammates. Meanwhile, former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom declined a fully stocked suite offered by the Dream and State Farm, choosing instead to leave with a camera crew after asking for courtside seats. Former US gymnastics champion Jennifer Sey also attended the finals wearing anti-trans athletic gear to provoke a reaction. In addition, conservative political pundit Phil Kent confused fans on a TV roundtable by claiming Sophie Cunningham was his favorite player instead of Angel Reese, despite Cunningham's Indiana Fever team being eliminated in the first round.

Context

Sports leagues in the United States have frequently intersected with political debates surrounding patriotism and social justice protests. The WNBA and its players have long been recognized for their active engagement in social causes and progressive politics.