WNBA Commissioner’s Memo on Transgender Athlete Discussions

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed ongoing discussions about transgender athletes in women’s basketball through a memo to the teams. Engelbert noted the increased attention on this issue and commended team representatives for handling media queries thoughtfully and professionally. The topic will be further examined by a task force of team presidents and general managers in an upcoming meeting.

An ESPN article last month featured Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham, who supported excluding transgender girls and women from girls’ and women’s sports. Cunningham’s remarks led to rallies and protests in Seattle and Portland during the Fever’s recent travel. There was a protest at the Fever’s home game against Las Vegas, and a rally is planned in support of Cunningham before the Indiana game in Chicago.

The WNBA has not made public statements on the matter. Engelbert emphasized the league’s commitment to approaching the topic with thoughtfulness in line with its values. The league’s collective bargaining agreement restricts eligibility to women without specific details on gender identity or assigned sex at birth. Recently, former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White announced they identify as women and declared intentions to join the WNBA draft.

Engelbert’s memo acknowledged the complexity of the issue and urged ongoing discussions within the league and with the Players Association. Engelbert encouraged team leaders to participate in listening sessions, underscoring the value of their input.

The WNBA Players Association issued a statement reaffirming their stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and rejecting the misuse of their members as political tools. They emphasized the need for continued discussions while condemning hate and discrimination.

Some players and coaches in the WNBA voiced their support for transgender athletes’ inclusion. Seattle Storm center Stefanie Dolson and Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve both advocate for transgender rights, highlighting the importance of sports access for all children as a core human rights issue.