The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries again walked off the court moments before the national anthem ahead of Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, leaving the arena floor empty during the performance. The teams returned seconds after the anthem concluded, defying the league’s rulebook requirement that players, coaches, and trainers stand and line up along the sidelines or foul line during the anthem.
The WNBA Finals series is now tied 1-1 after the Dream’s 79-65 victory, which was led by Angel Reese, who scored 30 points and grabbed 16 rebounds—the youngest player in WNBA postseason history to record such a double-double. Australian rookie Izzy Borlase contributed with a key block late in the second quarter, helping Atlanta secure its first Finals win in franchise history after three prior series sweeps.
The league has not publicly addressed the anthem protests, which have now occurred in two consecutive Finals games (Oct. 17 and Oct. 19). The WNBA rulebook explicitly states the anthem policy, though enforcement remains unaddressed by officials. The next game is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday at Chase Center in San Francisco.
League Policy and Enforcement
The WNBA’s official rulebook mandates that players, coaches, and trainers must stand and line up in a dignified posture during the national anthem. The policy does not specify penalties for violations, and the league has not issued statements regarding the incidents or potential disciplinary actions. The Golden State Valkyries and Atlanta Dream have not commented on their decision to leave the court.
Game 2 Highlights
Reese’s dominant performance included 30 points, 16 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal, leading Atlanta to its first Finals victory after losing Game 1. Borlase, playing in her first WNBA season, provided a critical defensive stop in the second quarter, sparking a 13-0 run that gave Atlanta a 39-37 halftime lead. The Dream extended their advantage in the third quarter, ultimately securing the win behind strong contributions from Allisha Gray (18 points) and Jordin Canada (13 points).
The series now shifts back to Atlanta for the next two games, where the Dream will have home-court advantage. Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday morning (AEDT).
Context and Precedent
This is the second consecutive WNBA Finals game where both teams have left the court during the anthem. The incidents follow a pattern of athlete activism in professional sports, though the WNBA’s policy and its enforcement—or lack thereof—have become a focal point of debate. The league’s silence on the matter contrasts with its clear anthem policy, leaving the interpretation of consequences ambiguous.
The 2024 WNBA Finals remain tied at one game apiece, with the next matchup set to resume Wednesday evening.