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‘I Love the Country’ – Rhyne Howard Fires Back at Critics Calling for Her Spot on Team USA Amid National Anthem Controversy

Following a series of national anthem absences during the WNBA Finals, Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard is defending her patriotism while addressing criticism from figures like Vernon Jones and Riley Gaines. Howard, who previously stood for the anthem during the World Cup, clarified that she intends to always stand when representing Team USA.

The Golden State Valkyries secured a 67-62 victory over the Atlanta Dream at State Farm Arena to tie the series at 2-2.

Dream coach Karl Smesko and Howard both declined to provide specific reasons for the team's anthem-related routine-based absences from the moving floor during the Finals series. Valkyries forward Gabby Williams also noted that the presence of players off the court during the anthem-related routine-based absences from the moving floor during the Finals series.

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