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Atlanta Dream and Valkyries Caught Violating WNBA Rulebook As They ‘Disrespect’ National Anthem Again in Game 2

During Game Two of the WNBA Finals on October 19, 2026, the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries exited the court prior to the playing of the national anthem. This marked the second consecutive game where both squads left the floor during the musical presentation, mirroring a similar departure from their previous matchup on Saturday.

OutKick highlighted the recurring behavior on social media, bringing renewed attention to the league's pregame protocol.

Section H of the basic principles in the WNBA rulebook instructs participants, coaches, and staff members to remain upright and arranged neatly along the sidelines or foul line while the anthem is performed. Although the walkouts appear to conflict with this written directive, the organization has not officially classified the actions as a rule violation or issued any penalties.

Neither organization has publicly clarified the motivation behind leaving the court during the ceremony, continuing a long tradition of player activism within the league without an official statement regarding these specific incidents.

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