WNBA to Discuss Trans Inclusion as 2 Male Ex-NBA Players Declare for Draft

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said Friday that the league will continue discussing transgender athlete participation in women's basketball at a task force meeting next week, declining to take a position as two former NBA players declared for the WNBA draft saying they identify as women.

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.

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

Former NBA first-round pick Royce White said Friday he intends to enter the 2027 WNBA draft, telling OutKick he now identifies as a woman “for purposes of basketball” and would take the league to court if no team signs him. White, 35, made the announcement hours after fellow ex-NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom declared h

Men In The WNBA? Former NBA Stars Declare For 2027 WNBA Draft, Cites “Self Declaration”  Forbes

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

He made the announcement on Friday.

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.

Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom claimed he wasn't trying to "mock" or "disrespect" anyone with his WNBA statement.

2027 NFL draft top pick predictions: Early chances at No. 1  ESPN