WNBA Finals players focus on games amid President Trump's anthem criticism

Players competing in the WNBA Finals are concentrating on preparing for their games rather than responding to President Donald Trump's recent criticism, WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando reported. Trump criticized WNBA players for leaving the court before the national anthem and called for a boycott of the league during a rally in Iowa.

Atlanta guard Allisha Gray stated she is focused on the finals and not paying attention to social media or outside comments, according to Yahoo Sports. Several of her Atlanta teammates and players from Golden State shared similar views, emphasizing their commitment to team unity and game preparation.

The practice of leaving the court before the national anthem is not new in the WNBA. WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando noted that many teams have followed this routine for years, including during the 2020 season held entirely in Florida due to the coronavirus pandemic.

At the Iowa rally, President Trump questioned the direction of the WNBA and suggested that fans should stop watching games because players do not stay for the anthem, which is played about 10 minutes before the end of pregame warmups, Yahoo Sports reported.

Players like Valkyries forward Kiah Stokes described their approach as staying off social media and focusing inward with teammates and staff, highlighting that maintaining team cohesion has been key throughout the season, according to WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando.