Enes Kanter Freedom, a former NBA player, has announced his intention to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft. The 6-foot-10 athlete, who played 11 seasons in the NBA, shared his decision on social media Friday afternoon. Freedom stated that he meets all current eligibility requirements for the WNBA based on the league's guidelines regarding self-identification and inclusion.
"If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every single requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA," Freedom said in a video accompanying his announcement. "My team and I have carefully examined the WNBA’s eligibility criteria and governing framework surrounding 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, 34, last played professionally in 2022. His declaration comes as the WNBA is experiencing heightened debate surrounding transgender athletes' participation. He emphasized his intent is not to mock or disrespect any community but to advocate for the equal application of current rules.
"I know my presence on the court will stir up strong opinions. I am definitely not here to mock, make fun of, or disrespect any community or personal choices," Freedom stated. "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's announcement has drawn reactions from political commentators. Riley Gaines and Piers Morgan, among others, have publicly supported his decision and questioned how the WNBA will respond.
The debate within the WNBA intensified recently following comments from Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham, who expressed a desire to "protect young girls" from "biological men" in sports. Her remarks have divided opinions among fans, players, and coaches.
In contrast, Golden State Valkyries player Gabby Williams has voiced support for transgender athletes, stating she 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 activist Riley Gaines has aligned herself with Cunningham, attending a Fever game with a sign reading "Sophie, Thank You - A Girl Mom." Gaines later posted on social media that WNBA staff had asked her to remove the sign, an experience she contrasted with other attendees displaying trans-related paraphernalia. Despite this, Gaines was ultimately able to keep her sign and posed for a photo with Cunningham after the Lynx's victory.