WNBA coaches criticize "Save Women's Sports" rally as pro-trans counterprotesters outnumber advocates at San Francisco game
Coaches of the Golden State Valkyries and Minnesota Lynx denounced the "Save Women's Sports" movement, while a larger group of pro-trans demonstrators confronted the rally outside the Chase Center before the game.
A "Save Women's Sports" rally was held outside San Francisco's Chase Center before the WNBA matchup between the Golden State Valkyries and the Minnesota Lynx. The event was met by a larger group of pro-trans activists who gathered nearby and voiced support for transgender rights.
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase said the sport is currently plagued by "too much hate speech" and urged people to "lead with love." Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve described the movement as a political talking point and emphasized that "trans kids belong," urging the public to educate themselves on the issue.
Outside the arena, several women holding signs for the rally reported being shouted at and surrounded by the counter-protesters. Family-rights attorney Erin Friday said the crowd yelled profanities and told them to leave, while Arianne Gieringer of LGB Alliance USA recounted being told she "didn't belong" at the venue despite being a lifelong Bay Area resident.
Security staff instructed the rally participants not to bring their signs inside the arena but allowed them to keep shirts bearing "XX-XY Athletics" logos, deeming them non-offensive. The game proceeded with the Lynx defeating the Valkyries 77-66, extending their league-leading record.
The San Francisco demonstration was the third "Save Women's Sports" rally held at a WNBA game that week, with additional events planned in other cities.