Lin Dunn Calls for Brittney Griner to Be Kicked From U.S. Olympic Team – “You Disrespect the American Hymn, You Don’t Deserve to Represent This Country”
In a fiery and controversial statement, former basketball coach Lin Dunn has called for WNBA star Brittney Griner to be removed from the U.S. Olympic team, citing her past actions during the national anthem as the primary reason. Dunn, a respected figure in women’s basketball who led the Indiana Fever to a WNBA Championship, did not hold back in her criticism of Griner, asserting that “if you disrespect the American hymn, you don’t deserve to represent this country.”
The comments come after a renewed debate over athlete protests during the national anthem, a topic that has remained a flashpoint in American sports. Griner, who has been vocal about social justice issues, previously knelt during the national anthem in protest against racial inequality and police brutality, a move that sparked both support and backlash. While she has defended her actions as a way to raise awareness for systemic injustices, some critics, including Dunn, see the protest as an affront to national pride.
In an interview with a major sports outlet, Dunn, now a prominent sports commentator, expressed her dismay with Griner’s protest, saying, “As an athlete, you have a platform and an opportunity to inspire millions, but if you’re going to show disrespect to the anthem that stands for freedom, unity, and the sacrifices of so many, then you shouldn’t be wearing the jersey. You don’t deserve to represent this country if you can’t respect it.”
Dunn, who is known for her no-nonsense approach to coaching and leadership, made it clear that she believes actions like Griner’s protest undermine the integrity of the U.S. Olympic team. “We’ve seen athletes protest in the past, but this goes beyond personal beliefs,” she added. “This is about showing respect for the country that has given you the opportunity to compete at the highest level. If you’re not willing to stand for that, then it’s time to step aside.”
The controversy surrounding the national anthem protests began years ago, with high-profile figures like NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick sparking widespread protests aimed at drawing attention to racial inequality and police violence. Since then, numerous athletes across various sports have followed suit, with mixed reactions from the public. While some view the protests as necessary actions to address critical issues, others, like Dunn, argue that they tarnish the image of American sports and disrespect those who have fought for the country’s freedom.
Griner, who has faced intense scrutiny for her activism, has remained steadfast in her beliefs. She has repeatedly explained that her actions were not meant to disrespect the military or the country but were aimed at pushing for change in the face of ongoing racial injustice. In a recent interview, Griner stated, “I’m proud to represent my country, but I can’t sit idly by while there are problems that need to be addressed. My actions were never about disrespecting anyone—it’s about making the country better for everyone.”
Her supporters have rallied behind her, defending her right to protest and questioning whether athletes should be expected to suppress their views for the sake of national unity. Many argue that sports should be a platform for raising awareness about important societal issues, and that Griner’s actions are in line with the tradition of using sports as a tool for social change.
Despite the support, Dunn’s remarks have ignited a fierce debate. Critics of Dunn’s position accuse her of being out of touch with the larger conversations about racial equality and social justice, while others believe that her call for Griner’s removal is an overreaction and an attempt to stifle free expression in sports.
The U.S. Olympic Committee has yet to comment on Dunn’s statement or whether Griner’s protest will have any impact on her inclusion in future Olympic competitions. However, the conversation is likely to intensify as the 2024 Paris Olympics approach and questions about athlete activism continue to evolve.
As the backlash grows, Griner’s fate on the U.S. Olympic team remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: Lin Dunn’s call for her removal has only deepened the already polarized debate over politics, patriotism, and protest in American sports.