The Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries have been criticised for leaving the court during the US national anthem before Game 1 of the WNBA Finals.
01Summary
- 01Game 1 of the 2026 WNBA Finals was played at the Chase Center in San Francisco.
- 02The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 68-64.
- 03Both teams left the court during the playing of the US national anthem before the game.
- 04The decision has drawn criticism from commentators and fans.
02Why it matters
The teams' action during the anthem reignites debate over political protest in sport, dividing public opinion and drawing attention away from the Finals.
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