League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Debate arises over WNBA national anthem enforcement ahead of Fever-Dream game

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 10:45 AM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Debate arises over WNBA national anthem enforcement ahead of Fever-Dream game

Summary

Concerns about the enforcement of national anthem protocols in the WNBA have surfaced ahead of the Indiana Fever's matchup against the Atlanta Dream. While the Fever players appeared on the court during the anthem, reports indicate that the Dream remained in their locker room. A fan highlighted this inconsistency with the league’s official rule, which states players must line up on the court in a dignified posture during the anthem. The WNBA's rule book has specified this procedure, leading to discussions about the enforcement of team compliance this season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•WNBA rule requires players to stand during the national anthem.
•Fever were present on the court, while Dream reportedly stayed in the locker room.
•Fan notes many teams may not be following the established anthem protocol.
•Rule book specifies dignified posture for players during the anthem.

Latest Updates

10:45 AMYahoo Sports — Fan suggests the WNBA are not enforcing their rule on the national anthem

What they're saying

"
The WNBA have outlined what teams are supposed to do during the pre-game national anthem in their rule book, though some teams do not appear to be obeying. Debate around the national anthem was brought back up again recently ahead of the Indiana Fever taking on the Atlanta Dream.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Dream Indiana Fever WNBA Basketball