During Saturday’s All-Star Game, the WNBA declined to wear the “USA 250” patch, making it the only major professional sport in the U.S. to do so.
Initially, WNBPA Treasurer Brianna Turner stirred some controversy by suggesting that the patch should not be worn, citing historical issues with slavery. She posted on X, “No WNBA player would have been free 250 years ago. The vast majority would not have been free even 100 years ago.”
This statement led to some discussion within the league, but ultimately, WNBA officials did not clarify whether the patch would be worn at the July 25 game. In the end, the patch was not included, and no official explanation was provided.
Turner continued to critique the U.S., stating, “We are some of the most elite female athletes. 250 years ago we would have been zookeepers or worked all day in the fields. Seriously guys.”
It’s a bit puzzling, though, considering Turner has represented Team USA in multiple FIBA championships in the past. You have to wonder what she thinks about that.
“Many professional sports and entertainment entities are showcasing patches for the nation’s 250th anniversary, including the Super Bowl, WrestleMania 42, the NBA Finals, and the MLB All-Star Game earlier this month,” noted a report from USA Today. Celebrations tied to this anniversary are organized in partnership with America250, a bipartisan organization supported by Congress and separate from the presidency. The “Freedom 250” initiative, associated with Donald Trump, has faced criticism from some Democrats regarding its portrayal of the country’s independence.
The league initially stated that players would wear the patch during the WNBA All-Star Game. However, when game day arrived and the patch was absent, the league did not explain why. They only mentioned that a decision on the patch “has not been finalized” beforehand.
“Like other major sports leagues, we are exploring the best way to commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary. Nothing has been finalized at this time,” the league commented just before the game.
The final game resulted in Caitlin Clark’s “Team Spoon” defeating “Team Co-op” with a score of 129-122. Notably, Brianna Turner was not among the players recognized for outstanding performance.
