IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
The WNBA will reportedly review its transgender policy after two former NBA players attempt to join the league.
On Friday, former NBA player Enes Kanter decided to test the league’s policy by declaring for the WNBA draft.
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
Former NBA player Royce White followed Kanter’s lead and announced that he was also declaring for the WNBA draft.
A second former NBA player plans to join the WNBA.
Royce White – a first-round NBA Draft pick in 2012 – told me he will be declaring for the 2027 WNBA Draft. The only thing that will stop him is if the WNBA makes a “definitive statement” that males can’t play in the league. https://t.co/1TiWv2d8Kp pic.twitter.com/22SsSgoHTf
— Jackson Thompson (@JackThompsonFOX) August 8, 2026
On Friday, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert sent a memo to players revealing that the league planned to review their transgender athlete policy next week.
Via Associated Press
“I know many of you have received questions in recent weeks regarding transgender athlete participation in women’s basketball, and I expect this topic will continue to receive significant attention,” Engelbert wrote in the memo, which was sent Friday afternoon and obtained by The Associated Press. “I wanted to reach out to share how we are approaching these conversations at the league office and to thank those of you who have responded to questions from the media with thoughtfulness and professionalism.”
Engelbert wrote that the league will “always approach this topic thoughtfully, respectfully, and in alignment with the longstanding values of our league. Second, our player eligibility rules, unlike the eligibility rules of some other leagues and governing bodies, are collectively bargained. Lastly, preserving the integrity of our game and ensuring fair competition will always remain among the league’s highest priorities.”
The league’s collective bargaining agreement states that “only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA,” but it does not include any more specific language about gender identity or sex assigned at birth.
“We recognize that this is a complex and nuanced topic, and we will continue to have important conversations with all of you and the Players Association in the weeks and months ahead,” Engelbert said in the memo. “We also plan to convene additional discussions and offer listening sessions for any team leaders who would like to participate. Your perspectives and feedback are invaluable, and I appreciate those who have already reached out to share their thoughts.”