WNBA Finals Players Focus on Games Amid Outside Criticism

Players participating in the WNBA Finals stated they are maintaining their concentration on game preparation rather than external criticism directed at the league. President Donald Trump recently criticized WNBA players for leaving the court prior to the national anthem and called for a league boycott during a rally in Iowa.

Atlanta guard Allisha Gray addressed reporters ahead of Game 4, stating she is blocking out social media and outside opinions. "I'm focused on the finals," Gray said. "I am not really on social media and listening to what people are saying."

Similar sentiments were echoed by teammates and opponents across the league. Golden State Valkyries forward Kiah Stokes noted that her team's strategy involves avoiding social media and relying on mutual support among players and staff. Leaving the court before the anthem has been a pregame routine for many teams for years, dating back to the league's 2000 season in Florida.

In professional men's basketball, the Atlanta Hawks opened their regular season with a 132-125 victory over the Orlando Magic. Despite the win, Hawks general manager Onsi Saleh indicated that the team has room for improvement as new roster additions and rookies adjust to the system.

Saleh noted that it is difficult to gauge a team's true level early in the season, particularly during demanding stretches of back-to-back games. The Hawks navigated foul trouble and defensive challenges during their opener, relying on veteran poise to secure the win.

Meanwhile, in collegiate athletics, the University Athletic Association (UAA) is preparing for the upcoming NCAA Division III men's basketball season following a strong prior year that featured four teams advancing to the national tournament, including Emory University finishing as national runner-up.

In separate developments involving an NBA game this week, former State Department press adviser Britt McHenry resigned from her position following an altercation at Capital One Arena during a matchup between the Washington Wizards and the Milwaukee Bucks.