The WNBA is capturing national attention, and a recent addition to its spotlight is 'Power of the Dream,' a documentary by Dawn Porter streaming on Amazon that examines the league's activism off the court during the tumultuous 2020 season. Diving into the players’ reaction to police violence and their involvement in the Georgia senatorial race, the film takes an unvarnished look at the personal struggles and collective efforts of WNBA athletes as they balance the demands of their sport with a commitment to social justice initiatives, according to a report by GPB.
Significant for its candid portrayal, the documentary veers away from athletic glorification and instead shines a light on the sacrifices made by these elite athletes. It features interviews with WNBA stars such as Angel McCoughtry, Layshia Clarendon, and Elizabeth Williams, and is produced by prominent WNBA figures Nneka Ogwumike and Sue Bird, who are not only leaders within the sport but also at the forefront of its social change movements. The film converges on the narrative that the league is more than just basketball—it's a platform for change and a vessel for voices that are often marginalized. These themes resonate throughout the project, offering glimpses into the players' genuine urgency and the intimacy of the proverbial locker room.
Highlighting a history of advocacy, 'Power of the Dream' reflects on moments like the protest staged by the Minnesota Lynx against the police killing of Philando Castile, which drew comparisons to Colin Kaepernick's later protests in the NFL. Maya Moore's larger-than-life advocacy work, including leaving basketball to help free a wrongly convicted man, is underscored as emblematic of the WNBA's deep-rooted sense of empathy and activism. The documentary also highlights Nneka Ogwumike's labor organization efforts, which led to significant strides such as a 53% salary increase and paid maternity leave for players. 'Power of the Dream' delves beyond the surface of mere sports spectacle.
Central to the documentary is the collective action undertaken by the players during the 2020 "Wubble" in response to the murders of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, noted by ESPN reporter Holly Rowe as the most politicized group of pro athletes in U.S. history. Their stand during that historic season was emphasized by a vigil held on the lawn of IMG Academy, attended by every single WNBA player. The Atlanta Dream's role in impacting the Georgia U.S. Senate race, where players openly denounced then-majority owner Republican Sen. Kelly Loeffler and supported her opponent Rev. Raphael Warnock—who later attributed his victory to the WNBA's backing—is detailed as a significant political stance rarely seen in professional sports.
In the midst of these historical achievements, Sue Bird reflected on the vast responsibilities that come with being a modern professional athlete, a sentiment echoed by her peers. Their initiatives encompass community outreach, in-depth research on political candidates, and a breadth of advocacy work that transcends the court. As Sue Bird herself stated, "It’s never just been about basketball for us," echoing the league's broader social commitment as showcased in 'Power of the Dream,' as reported by GPB.
