Lin Dunn, a Hall of Fame basketball coach and former WNBA executive, has called for Brittney Griner to be removed from the U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team. Dunn’s demand stems from Griner’s past stance on the national anthem, a controversy that has resurfaced as the Paris 2024 Olympics approach.
Griner, a dominant force in women’s basketball, has been a vocal advocate for social justice and previously took a stand against the national anthem. In 2020, during the WNBA’s push for racial equality, she stated that the anthem should not be played before games and chose to remain off the court during its performance. This decision, which was part of a broader movement among athletes, sparked debate about patriotism, activism, and the role of sports in political discourse.
Dunn’s remarks reflect the views of those who believe that representing the United States on the Olympic stage requires an unwavering commitment to national symbols. “If you don’t respect the anthem, you don’t deserve to represent this country,” she stated in a public comment that has quickly gained traction. Her call for Griner’s exclusion has ignited a firestorm of reactions from both supporters and critics.
Many who back Dunn’s stance argue that athletes selected for Team USA must embody national pride, respect traditions, and uphold the values of the country. They contend that Griner’s previous actions disqualify her from the honor of wearing the national jersey, regardless of her talent or contributions to the game. Some believe that personal political views should be set aside when representing the nation on a global platform.
On the other hand, Griner’s defenders argue that patriotism is not measured by standing for a song but by a deeper commitment to justice and equality. They highlight that the very freedoms the anthem represents include the right to peaceful protest. Furthermore, Griner has since expressed that her views have evolved, stating that her time in Russian detainment in 2022 gave her a newfound appreciation for the U.S. and its freedoms.
The controversy surrounding Griner’s selection reflects the broader national divide over activism in sports. The debate over athletes’ right to protest versus expectations of patriotic displays has intensified in recent years, fueled by figures like Colin Kaepernick and Megan Rapinoe. While some view silent protests as acts of defiance, others see them as necessary steps toward progress.
As the discussion unfolds, USA Basketball has remained silent on the matter, focusing on roster decisions based on talent and team dynamics. Griner’s inclusion in the Olympic squad was widely anticipated due to her skills, experience, and impact on the game. However, Dunn’s remarks add another layer of scrutiny to the team’s composition and the potential distractions it may face leading up to the Olympics.
Political and cultural tensions often surface around major international competitions, where national identity and sports intertwine. The Olympics, in particular, have long been a stage for both unity and controversy, from political boycotts to individual athlete protests. Griner’s situation is yet another chapter in the ongoing conversation about what it means to represent the United States on a global scale.
Some analysts believe that Dunn’s comments, while reflective of strong patriotic sentiments, may not influence Team USA’s final decision. The selection process remains in the hands of coaches and executives, who are likely to prioritize performance over political discourse. Yet, the public reaction to Dunn’s statement suggests that the issue will not fade quietly.
Griner herself has not directly responded to Dunn’s demand, but she has consistently emphasized her commitment to her team and the game. She has worked to rebuild her career after her detainment in Russia, where she was sentenced to prison on drug charges before being released in a high-profile prisoner swap. Since returning to the WNBA, she has been vocal about her gratitude for the support she received and her renewed perspective on representing her country.
For many, Griner’s journey from detainment to an Olympic roster spot symbolizes resilience and redemption. However, for critics like Dunn, past actions still carry weight, and an athlete’s conduct off the court matters just as much as their performance on it. This ideological clash underscores the continuing debate about what it means to be an ambassador for the United States in international competition.
The situation has also prompted renewed discussions about the intersection of sports, politics, and patriotism. While some argue that athletes should focus solely on competition, others maintain that sports have always been a platform for societal change. From Muhammad Ali refusing to serve in the Vietnam War to Tommie Smith and John Carlos raising their fists on the Olympic podium, history is filled with athletes who have used their platform to make statements beyond the game.
As public discourse intensifies, USA Basketball may eventually be forced to address the controversy. Whether or not they acknowledge Dunn’s remarks, the debate surrounding Griner’s presence on the team will likely persist until the Paris Olympics begin. If Griner competes, she will do so under a microscope, with every move scrutinized by both supporters and detractors.
The broader question remains whether an athlete’s past actions should dictate their future opportunities. Griner has demonstrated elite skills, resilience, and growth, but for those who align with Dunn, her past protests still cast a shadow over her Olympic candidacy. The tension between personal beliefs and national representation continues to challenge the sports world, with no clear resolution in sight.
Regardless of the final decision, the controversy surrounding Griner’s selection is indicative of the evolving expectations placed on athletes. As the U.S. Olympic team prepares for Paris, the discussion over patriotism, protest, and representation will remain at the forefront. Whether Griner’s presence on the team is seen as a symbol of progress or an affront to national pride will depend on perspective, but one thing is certain—her journey to the Olympics will not be without scrutiny.
