Basketball icon and current Indiana Fever General Manager Lin Dunn recently called for Brittney Griner to be expelled from the U.S. Olympic team. Dunn’s comments have sparked widespread debate and underscored the ongoing national conversation around patriotism, protest, and the role of athletes in social justice movements.

Brittney Griner, a seven-time WNBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, has been a vocal advocate for social justice. In the wake of heightened tensions surrounding racial inequality and police brutality in the United States, Griner, like many other athletes, has used her platform to raise awareness and demand change. One of her most controversial stances has been her decision not to stand for the U.S. national anthem, a symbolic gesture of protest that has drawn both support and criticism.

Griner’s decision echoes the actions of other athletes like Colin Kaepernick, who famously knelt during the anthem in protest of police brutality. Griner has stated that she does not believe the anthem represents her or her values, particularly in light of the ongoing struggles faced by the African American community.

“You disrespect the American anthem, you don’t deserve to represent this country,” Dunn stated emphatically. “Playing for the U.S. Olympic team is an honor and a privilege. If you can’t stand with pride and respect for our anthem, then you shouldn’t wear the uniform.”

Dunn’s comments have been met with mixed reactions. Some support her view, arguing that representing the United States on the world stage should come with a commitment to honoring national symbols. Others believe that athletes like Griner have the right to protest in ways they see fit, particularly when it comes to issues of social justice.