Dream and Valkyries skip national anthem again in WNBA Finals Game 2 despite rulebook requirement

Key Points:

• The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries skipped the national anthem on the court before both Games 1 and 2 of the WNBA Finals, despite league rules requiring players to stand and line up during the anthem.
• Both teams left the court shortly before the anthem began and returned only seconds after it ended, repeating the absence from Game 1 without explanation.
• The WNBA's 2026 official rulebook mandates that players, coaches, and trainers must stand in a dignified posture during the anthem, but the league has not responded to inquiries about enforcement or discipline.
• OutKick repeatedly sought comments from the WNBA and the teams about the anthem absences and any league instructions but received no responses and was not allowed to ask questions at press conferences.
• The league’s silence and lack of action highlight a potential violation of its own policy during a high-profile event, raising questions about enforcement and player conduct standards.