The WNBA is re-evaluating its policy on transgender athletes in response to comments from Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham. Her statements about transgender athletes competing in women’s sports gained renewed attention, sparking a social media debate.
In March, Cunningham clarified to ESPN her stance, explaining, “I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans.” She continued, “I never once said that. I think that I am here to extend love. But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men.”
Currently, the WNBA has no specific policy for transgender athletes. The collective bargaining agreement states, “only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA.” This policy may undergo changes soon.
The league has formed a task force, involving team presidents and general managers, to review the eligibility rules. This action follows former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White declaring for the 2027 WNBA draft.
“We will approach these important conversations thoughtfully and in alignment with the values of our league,” the league said in a statement. “There are no immediate eligibility matters affecting the WNBA and we strongly denounce the bad-faith efforts to use these topics to demean or marginalize others.”
To date, no transgender athlete has played in the WNBA. This topic has created a divide among fans. Protests occurred at a recent game between the Fever and the Seattle Storm, reflecting both support and opposition to Cunningham’s views.
Addressing this issue has become a crucial priority for the WNBA.
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