Overview
- A Sportico report on Thursday said the WNBA planned to add USA250 patches to All‑Star Game jerseys for the July 25 game in Chicago, a detail the league had not publicly announced.
- The WNBA issued a brief statement to USA TODAY saying nothing is finalized and the league is exploring how best to mark the country’s 250th anniversary, leaving the matter open.
- Prominent players have already pushed back on the idea on social media, with Las Vegas Aces forward and players’ association treasurer Brianna Turner arguing the patch ignores the league’s history with slavery.
- Other major leagues and teams have worn the USA250 patch at marquee events and Fanatics plans limited fan merchandise, while some organizations such as the NWSL are reported not to participate.
- The patches were promoted in a January release linked to President Trump’s White House and Fanatics and the decision over WNBA use could affect player‑league relations, public perception, and merchandising plans during All‑Star weekend.