WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert sends trans inclusion memo after Enes Freedom, Royce White announcements

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed teams in a memo as Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White each declared for the 2027 WNBA Draft.

Former NBA first-round pick Enes Kanter Freedom announced he is declaring eligibility for the 2027 WNBA Draft, saying he believes he qualifies under the league’s current eligibility guidelines. The former NBA center said his announcement is intended to challenge how the WNBA applies its inclusion policies.

Former NBA player Royce White announced that he would be declaring for the WNBA Draft in 2027, stating that he is "transgender."

The former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom stands at 6 foot 10 inches.

Royce White announces her intention to enter the WNBA Draft: "I identify as a trans woman who only identifies sometimes"  MARCA

Here's what to know about the WNBA eligibility of Enes Kanter Freedom and other men as the league faces pushback on its public support for transgender athlete inclusion in women's sports.

August 07, 2026 3:07 PM ET The ball is in your court, WNBA, or should I say balls.Ever since Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham came out publicly against transgenders competing in female sports, it���s been an absolute circus around the WNBA, especially considering a lot of figures in the league have taken a public s