Dream and Valkyries continue anthem absence before WNBA Finals game 6
Developing story first seen 3 hours ago
Fans interviewed before Game 6 of the WNBA Finals expressed differing views as both teams left the court during the national anthem. The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries’ absence continued a pattern seen in all six games of the series.
Some fans wanted players to remain on court, while others supported their freedom to choose or said they were not especially bothered. Golden State coach Natalie Nakase described leaving as part of the team’s pregame routine; forward Gabby Williams said it was not a protest and had been the routine for about seven years. The Valkyries led the best-of-seven series 3–2 after winning Game 5, and Game 6’s start was moved from 8 p.m. to 12.30 p.m. to accommodate an NBA doubleheader.
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In short
- Both teams missed the anthem for the sixth straight Finals game.
- Fans differed on whether players should remain on court.
- Golden State entered Game 6 leading the series 3–2.
How this story developed
- 4 minutes ago Harris’s performance before the Atlanta game continued the teams’ absence from all six anthems in the series, while coach Natalie Nakase and forward Gabby Williams said it reflected a long-standing pregame routine rather than a protest; Golden State could clinch its first title.
- 14 minutes ago Ahead of Game 6 of the WNBA Finals, both teams left the court as 10-year-old Heiress Harris sang the US national anthem, prompting varied reactions from fans; Golden State led the series 3–2, and the game was moved to 12.30 p.m. for an NBA doubleheader.
Where outlets differ
Right-leaning outlets 1
Only here: valkyries, continue, anthem, absence, game
Every side used: dream, wnba, finals
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The case for
Players may reasonably choose to leave the court during the anthem as part of an established pregame routine or personal expression; attendance need not be treated as a measure of respect or patriotism. Respecting that choice also avoids placing political meaning on an action the team says was routine and not a protest.
The case against
Players remaining on court could be seen as a courteous way to acknowledge a young performer and the shared occasion, regardless of personal views about the anthem. Their visible presence may also matter to fans who regard standing together during it as a meaningful sign of respect for the country and its traditions.
Coverage · 2 sources
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Originally published by Fox News as “Dream, Valkyries leave court before TI’s 10-year-old daughter sings WNBA Finals anthem”.