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‘At Least Have the Guts To Explain Why’ – Ex-Indiana Coach Calls Out Dream, Valkyries Players Skipping the National Anthem

Former Indiana Fever head coach Dan Dakich has criticized the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries for skipping the national anthem during the WNBA Finals, calling on the teams to clarify their reasoning. Both franchises have maintained the practice of leaving the court before the anthem begins, a routine Golden State has followed since joining the league in 2025 and Atlanta for several years prior.

Dakich, known for his long coaching career, questioned the lack of transparency, arguing that athletes and coaches should openly explain their stance if they choose not to stand for the anthem. He specifically addressed Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase, suggesting that if the absence is a form of protest, it should be acknowledged directly.

During a recent podcast, Dakich played a clip of Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, who expressed pride in her American identity and support for military personnel, contrasting her views with the teams’ current practice. Valkyries forward Gabby Williams and coach Nakase addressed the issue ahead of Game 4, framing the absence as part of their pregame routine rather than a protest, though Nakase admitted she was unaware of its origins.

The WNBA has a history of anthem-related demonstrations, including a 2020 season where players from the Seattle Storm and New York Liberty left the court in protest against racial injustice.

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