WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has addressed the ongoing discussions about transgender athletes in women’s basketball. In a memo, she acknowledged that questions have been raised about transgender participation in the sport. Engelbert stated that these conversations will continue to draw attention and shared the league’s approach to them.
The memo, sent to teams and acquired by The Associated Press, mentioned an upcoming meeting where a task force of team presidents and general managers will discuss the issue further. Engelbert expressed gratitude to those who have addressed media inquiries with professionalism.
Recent comments by Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham in an ESPN article sparked rallies and protests. Cunningham supported barring transgender girls and women from participating in female sports. Small protests occurred in Seattle and Portland during the Fever’s road games. A protester also appeared at their home game against Las Vegas, and rallies are planned by conservative groups before their upcoming game in Chicago.
The league has not publicly commented on the issue. Engelbert emphasized the WNBA’s approach as thoughtful and aligned with the league’s values. She highlighted that player eligibility rules are part of a collective bargaining agreement. The agreement states only women can play in the WNBA, lacking specific language on gender identity.
Former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White announced their eligibility for the WNBA draft, claiming to identify as women. Engelbert acknowledged the complexity of the topic and expressed the league’s commitment to ongoing discussions with teams and the Players Association.
The WNBA Players’ Association released a statement underscoring their commitment to diversity and inclusion. They rejected being used as political tools and emphasized their role in fostering transformational change.
Some players and coaches have shown support for transgender athletes. Seattle Storm center Stefanie Dolson and Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve have voiced their backing. Reeve strongly advocated protecting transgender children, considering it a human rights issue.