Tensions flared at the Chase Center on Saturday during the opening game of the 2026 WNBA Finals as both the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries chose to vacate the court before the national anthem began. The decision triggered immediate backlash from fans, many of whom took to social media to call for severe disciplinary measures, with some users suggesting that the teams should be banned or disqualified entirely for the gesture.
The incident was captured on video and highlighted by Outkick reporter Dan Zaksheske, who noted that both squads returned to the floor approximately two minutes later, immediately after the anthem concluded. Fellow Outkick reporter Jon Root also criticized the move, sharing footage of the teams departing the court and labeling the decision as a “slap in the face to the servicemen & women” in his commentary.
Despite the intense public criticism surfacing across online platforms, the league has not yet released an official statement regarding the behavior of the players during the pre-game ceremonies.
The controversy has overshadowed the lead-up to the seven-game championship series, which had previously been dominated by discussions surrounding the high average ticket prices for the debut finals and ongoing interest in player performances, such as Angel Reese’s recent practice shooting displays. Fans Abuzz As Angel Reese Displays Perfect 3-Pt Shooting At Dream Practice.
