Brittney Griner and the National Anthem: Kneeling Controversy and Public Reaction

Brittney Griner, one of the biggest names in women’s basketball, has never shied away from speaking her mind. Over the years, she has been in the headlines for both her dominance on the court and her outspoken stance on social justice. One of the most debated topics surrounding her is her decision to kneel during the national anthem—a move that has sparked intense discussions, praise, and criticism alike.

In this article, we’ll dive into why Brittney Griner kneeled, the reactions from the public, and the broader impact of anthem protests in sports.

Who Is Brittney Griner?

Before we get into the controversy, let’s talk about who Brittney Griner is and why she holds such a prominent place in basketball.

• WNBA Star – Griner plays as a center for the Phoenix Mercury in the WNBA. She’s known for her incredible defensive skills and dunking ability.
• Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist – She has represented the USA on the global stage, helping the team secure gold medals.
• Advocate for Social Justice – Beyond basketball, Griner has been vocal about racial injustice, LGBTQ+ rights, and equality in sports.

Why Did Brittney Griner Kneel During the National Anthem?

1. Protesting Racial Injustice

Griner’s decision to kneel was in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, following the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and other Black Americans at the hands of police.

2. Following the Legacy of Colin Kaepernick

The protest mirrored Colin Kaepernick’s 2016 NFL kneeling protest, which aimed to bring awareness to police brutality and racial inequality.

3. Taking a Stand Against Systemic Oppression

Griner has openly stated that she does not believe the national anthem represents her values, particularly as a Black and LGBTQ+ athlete in America.

Public Reaction to Griner’s Anthem Protest

As expected, Griner’s stance ignited mixed reactions—some praised her courage, while others criticized her decision.

1. Support from Fans and Fellow Athletes

• Many in the WNBA and NBA supported her, calling her move a powerful stand against injustice.
• Activists and social justice advocates applauded her for using her platform to shed light on important issues.

2. Backlash from Critics and Conservatives

• Some Americans, particularly conservative voices, saw her protest as disrespectful to the flag and the military.
• Online discussions often turned heated, with critics suggesting that she should leave the country if she doesn’t respect the anthem.

3. Mixed Reactions from Veterans

• While some military veterans supported her right to protest, others felt it dishonored those who served.

Griner’s Stance on the Anthem Before and After Her Detainment in Russia

In 2020, Griner was vocal about not standing for the anthem. However, in 2023, after being detained in Russia for nearly ten months, her perspective seemed to shift slightly.

1. 2020: Griner on Protesting the Anthem

• In interviews, she stated that she did not believe the anthem should even be played before games.
• She emphasized that her actions were about justice and equality, not disrespecting the military.

2. 2023: Return from Russian Detainment

• After spending time in a Russian prison, some noticed that Griner stood for the anthem upon her return.
• She acknowledged that her experience gave her a new perspective on American freedoms, but she did not retract her previous stance.

The Bigger Picture: Anthem Protests in Sports

Griner’s protest is part of a larger movement of athlete activism that has shaped modern sports culture.

1. The Colin Kaepernick Effect

• Kaepernick’s decision to kneel in 2016 set the stage for more athletes to take a stand.
• He faced backlash and was effectively blackballed from the NFL, but his actions inspired countless protests.

2. WNBA’s History of Activism

• The WNBA has been at the forefront of social justice, with entire teams protesting before games.
• Players have worn shirts, walked off the court, and spoken out in interviews.

3. Other Notable Athlete Protests

• LeBron James and the NBA used their platforms to advocate for justice.
• Megan Rapinoe took a knee in support of Kaepernick.
• Olympians like Tommie Smith and John Carlos famously raised their fists on the podium in 1968.

Does Kneeling During the Anthem Work?

Some people question whether kneeling actually leads to change, while others argue that it raises awareness in powerful ways.

1. Awareness vs. Action

• Kneeling sparks conversations but doesn’t directly change laws or policies.
• However, it pressures leagues, teams, and sponsors to acknowledge social justice issues.

2. The Impact on Sports Culture

• Kneeling has normalized athlete activism, making it harder for leagues to ignore social issues.
• It has also forced discussions about racial injustice and patriotism in America.

3. The Financial Impact

• Some leagues and teams faced boycotts from fans and sponsors due to anthem protests.
• Others gained new sponsors and partnerships with social justice organizations.

Where Does Brittney Griner Stand Today?

Griner remains a strong advocate for equality and justice, but she has also expressed gratitude for her freedoms after returning from Russia.

1. Does She Still Kneel?

• As of her return in 2023, she has been seen standing during the anthem, but she hasn’t retracted her previous statements.

2. Has Her Message Changed?

• While her experience in Russia gave her a new perspective, she still believes in the fight for justice.

3. What’s Next for Griner?

• She continues to play in the WNBA and speak out on important social issues.
• Her story remains one of resilience, advocacy, and personal growth.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Griner’s Protest

Brittney Griner’s decision to kneel during the national anthem sparked controversy, but it also contributed to a larger conversation about race, justice, and freedom in America.

Love her or hate her, you can’t deny that she stood by her beliefs—and that’s exactly what makes her one of the most influential athletes of our time.