Source: basketnews.com
WNBA Executive Director Cathy Engelbert addressed the league’s teams in a memo concerning the ongoing debate about the participation of transgender athletes in women’s basketball. This discussion recently gained further attention after former NBA center Enes Kanter registered for the WNBA draft in protest.
“I know many of you have received questions in recent weeks about transgender athletes competing in women’s basketball, and I expect this topic to continue drawing significant attention. I wanted to reach out to share our approach to these discussions within the league office and to thank those who have responded thoughtfully and professionally to media inquiries,” Engelbert wrote.
She emphasized that the league will continue to handle the matter with care, respect, and in line with the league’s longstanding values. Unlike some other leagues and governing bodies, the WNBA’s player eligibility rules are subject to collective bargaining. Maintaining the integrity of the game and ensuring fair competition remain top priorities for the league.
Acknowledging the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, Engelbert noted that important conversations will continue in the coming weeks and months with all stakeholders, including the Players Association. The league also plans to hold additional open dialogue sessions and meetings for team executives who wish to participate. She expressed appreciation for those who have already shared their thoughts and feedback.
The memo also mentioned that a working group composed of team presidents and general managers will further discuss the topic, with a meeting scheduled for next week.
Donald Trump Jr., son of former U.S. President Donald Trump, publicly voiced his support for Kanter. “I’ll take a risk and predict this: Enes will break all WNBA records in his first season. He will truly become an incredible star in women’s basketball,” Trump Jr. wrote on his social media account X.
Kanter’s decision to enter the WNBA draft aims to draw attention to the league’s rules and to test them practically amid ongoing discussions about gender policies in sports.
