USA TODAY Sports
Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom wants to test the WNBA’s eligibility rules amid the trans athlete controversy in the WNBA.
Two weeks ago, Sophie Cunningham caused a stir when she said she wanted to “protect young girls” from trans athletes playing in women’s sports.
“I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans. And I’m like, ‘I never once said that,’” she says. “I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men.”
Cunningham faced backlash from other players and coaches in the league, including Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve, who wore a “trans kids belong” shirt during a game.
On Thursday, WNBA player Gabby Williams told the media that she would accept a trans athlete in the league following Cunningham’s comments.
“I think it’s trans right now is our new battle…I would welcome a trans athlete on my team or against my team anytime.”
WNBA Golden State Valkyries player Gabby Williams says she supports MEN in women’s basketball.
“I think it’s trans right now is our new battle…I would welcome a trans athlete on my team or against my team anytime.” pic.twitter.com/mS5JCiHzHS
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) August 7, 2026
The WNBA trans athlete debate has now led to former NBA player Kanter declaring to join the WNBA draft in an effort to test the league’s policy on trans athletes.
After careful consideration and reviewing the current eligibility guidelines, I’m officially declaring myself a @WNBA
prospect.
If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every single requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA.
My team and I have carefully examined the WNBA’s eligibility criteria and governing framework surrounding self-identification and inclusion. Based on the current guidelines, I can and am officially declaring my eligibility for the upcoming WNBA draft in April 2027.
Former NBA 1st rd pick Enes Kanter Freedom has declared for the WNBA Draft
“My team & I have carefully examined the WNBA’s eligibility criteria… Based on the current guidelines, I can & am officially declaring my eligibility for the upcoming WNBA Draft” pic.twitter.com/6S66h75AS0
— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) August 7, 2026
It is worth noting that the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement states that online women are allowed to play in the league but does not specify transgender athletes.
Article XIII, Section 1(a) states: “Only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA.”
The league has stayed mum on whether transgender athletes would be allowed to play but will eventually have to address the issue.