Game 6 Timing of WNBA Finals Sparks Debate Among Fans

The father of Golden State Valkyries star Tiffany Hayes criticized the WNBA for scheduling a potential championship game at 12:30 p.m. on a Thursday. Renard Hayes expressed his frustration outside State Farm Arena before the game between his daughter’s team and the Atlanta Dream.

I think it’s the league’s fault,

Renard Hayes mentioned, attributing some blame to the Atlanta organization as well.

Fans also voiced concerns about the timing. Many had to take time off work, pull children from school, and travel for hours. They expected the game to start at 8 p.m. However, the WNBA moved Game 6 to the afternoon to arrange a doubleheader, as the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks were set to play that night.

Golden State had a 3-2 lead and a chance to secure its first championship. While Renard Hayes managed to adjust, he worried about others less fortunate. He criticized the lack of preparation and alternative solutions.

Fans watching from California faced even earlier game times, starting at 9:30 a.m. Some took breaks from work to watch, while others couldn’t. Hayes referenced Golden State’s experience moving a playoff game to San Jose as an example of better preparedness.

The venue change to State Farm Arena allowed more fans to attend. Yet, the early start posed issues. A Dream fan traveled four hours and noted her child missed school to attend. Another fan managed to get time off work but acknowledged it was difficult for others.

Some fans questioned why the NBA game received priority over a potential WNBA championship. A family attending remarked:

It’s kind of disrespectful to the Dream,

noting the Hawks were beginning their season.

The Hawks agreed to an 8 p.m. start to accommodate the doubleheader. However, attendees believed the WNBA Finals should have been prioritized. A Valkyries supporter emphasized the need for respect, despite appreciating the larger venue.

Not everyone opposed the early game. A Dream fan encouraged support from wherever people were. A Valkyries fan, arriving from San Francisco, dismissed fatigue concerns, stating:

No. We’re ready.

The league announced the schedule change three days before Game 6, with tickets available that afternoon. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised sellout crowds and emphasized the opportunity for more fans. USA Sports, broadcasting the game, admitted the afternoon slot wasn’t ideal for TV viewership but wanted to collaborate for a solution.

Fans found ways to adapt, taking time off or bringing children. Despite his daughter’s achievement, Renard Hayes felt the league’s handling of the situation could have been better.