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"Grow up, WNBA" - Game 2 of the Finals draws backlash as players from both teams boycott the national anthem again

The Atlanta Dream secured their inaugural championship following a 79-65 victory against the Golden State Valkyries, breaking an initial streak of three finals losses. Meanwhile, the contest drew heavy media scrutiny when athletes from both rosters retreated to the locker rooms during the performance of the national anthem, mirroring a similar occurrence from the opening matchup.

Angel Reese recorded a notable statistical output of 30 points and 16 rebounds during the second game.

This demonstration builds upon previous actions originating during the Black Lives Matter movement across the association, despite league rulebook stipulations requiring personnel to remain visible and lined up properly. Notably, athletes such as Reese and Rhyne Howard previously participated in the FIBA Women’s World Cup in Germany representing the United States without displaying similar objections.

League leadership, including Cathy Engelbert, has maintained silence regarding the ongoing controversy.

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