Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom announced Friday that he is officially declaring for the 2027 WNBA Draft. The 6-foot-10 former standout, who played 11 seasons in the NBA, shared his declaration on social media, stating his intention to compete in the league.
Freedom, 34, explained his decision by referencing current eligibility guidelines. "After careful consideration and reviewing the current eligibility guidelines, I’m officially declaring myself a @WNBA prospect," he stated in a video post. "If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every single requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA."
He added that his team had examined the WNBA’s criteria for self-identification and inclusion. "Based on the current guidelines, I can and am officially declaring my eligibility for the upcoming WNBA draft in April 2027," Freedom said. He emphasized his intent was not to mock any community but to ensure that current rules are applied equally to everyone, aligning with principles many WNBA players and coaches have publicly advocated for.
Freedom's announcement arrives amid a contentious debate surrounding transgender athletes in women's sports. The discussion was recently amplified by Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham's comments advocating for restrictions to "protect young girls" from "biological men" in sports. This stance has divided opinions within the sports community.
In contrast, Golden State Valkyries player Gabby Williams has expressed support for transgender inclusion, stating, "I would welcome a trans athlete on my team or against my team, anytime." Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve has also shown support for transgender youth by wearing a "Trans Kids Belong" t-shirt during a game.
Political commentators and public figures have reacted to Freedom's declaration. Riley Gaines, a vocal critic of transgender participation in women's sports, responded by posting, "Genius. Perfect. Waiting to see which WNBA team recruits." Clay Travis also offered his support.
During a recent game, activist Riley Gaines attended to support Cunningham, bringing a sign that read "Sophie, Thank You - A Girl Mom." According to retired gymnast Jennifer Sey, Gaines was asked by WNBA staff to put the sign away. Gaines later posted on social media, suggesting she was singled out despite numerous other signs being present in the arena, many with trans paraphernalia. Despite the alleged request, Gaines kept her sign and later posed for a photo with Cunningham after the game, holding the sign.
Freedom has not played professionally since 2022. His NBA career included stints with the Utah Jazz, Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Boston Celtics after being selected third overall in the 2011 NBA Draft. He officially changed his name to Enes Kanter Freedom in 2021.