Former NBA first-round draft pick Enes Kanter Freedom has declared his eligibility for the 2027 Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) Draft, a move he frames as a challenge to the league's fairness and inclusion policies.

Freedom stated that he meets all necessary requirements to compete in the WNBA based on self-identification guidelines. He announced his declaration through a social media post, asserting that his team has reviewed the WNBA's eligibility criteria and the governmental framework surrounding self-identification. "Based on the current guidelines, I can and am officially declaring my eligibility for the upcoming WNBA Draft in May 2027," Freedom said.

The declaration comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's sports. Freedom, known for his past activism against entities like the Chinese Communist Party and Nike, suggested that his move is intended to place scrutiny on the WNBA's commitment to its stated principles.

"If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA," Freedom stated. He also added, "I am definitely not here to mock, make fun of, or disrespect any community or personal choices. I’m simply asking that the current rules be applied equally to everyone - the rules that represent the very values many WNBA players and coaches have publicly advocated for."

Freedom, who last played in the NBA in 2022, also referenced the situation of transgender swimmer Lia Thomas, who competed on the men's team at the University of Pennsylvania before transitioning and competing on the women's team. Freedom suggested that his WNBA draft declaration is a parallel to that situation and a way to test the league's inclusive stance.

"The WNBA has also undoubtedly asked for this. Now is the time for them to put their money where their mouth is," Freedom said. "If you’re really so 'inclusive,' you should have no problem with this."

He concluded his announcement by stating, "My team and I are prepared to ensure these guidelines are applied equally, consistently, and without exception, and I look forward to the WNBA honoring its stated principles. See you at training camp."

The WNBA has not yet issued a formal response to Freedom's declaration.