IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
WNBA players ended up not wearing a USA 250 patch during the All-Star game.
Earlier this year, Sportico reported that the WNBA had planned to wear a USA 250 patch during its All-Star game to commemorate the nation’s 250th birthday.
The WNBA is planning to have its biggest stars wear USA 250 patches during this year’s All-Star Game, according to multiple people familiar with the plans, joining a handful of other leagues committed to publicly commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The red, white and blue patches were unveiled earlier this year by Fanatics in partnership with President Donald Trump. The league will have the patch added to jerseys during its All-Star Game on July 25 in Chicago, said the people, who were granted anonymity because the details have not yet been announced.
WNBA players, including Brianna Turner, spoke out against wearing the USA 250 patch on social media.
Whoever called for the WNBA all star uniforms to have the USA 250 patch should have thought that through considering no WNBA players would have been free 250 years ago. The majority wouldn’t even have their freedom 100 years ago https://t.co/N0kkM7IqMb
— Breezy (@_Breezy_Briii) June 4, 2026
The WNBA All-Stars did not wear a USA 250 patch during the game on Saturday, and the WNBA refused to acknowledge why.
Via Outkick/Fox News
“As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, the WNBA was proud to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans and military families. Veterans and military families have long been part of the WNBA community—as players, fans, and league, team, and arena staff. Through All-Star Weekend in Chicago, the league recognized their contributions and helped create meaningful experiences in celebration of this historic milestone.”
The statement did not address why the league decided not to use the USA 250 uniform patch reported by Sportico, whether Brianna Turner’s public criticism influenced the decision or who made the final call.
WNBA players union president Nneka Ogwumike said the players had talked to the WNBA about the patches beforehand.
“As players, we did ask about it,” Ogwumike said. “I think being in a league where you’re able to have that type of conversation with your leadership is important. You’re not always in a position to be able to question certain things, and our players own the fact that we have a level of autonomy.”
“We also have individuals and communities that we represent, and we also understand our mission statement and what we stand for, especially from a union perspective.”