WNBA Declares Enes Kanter Freedom Ineligible for Draft, Citing Gender Rules
The league responded to the former NBA player's draft declaration and game ejection, asserting that only women are eligible to play.
Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom has been informed by the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) that he is ineligible to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft. The league's decision comes amid ongoing discussions regarding transgender athlete participation.
Kanter had announced his intention to enter the WNBA Draft in August, a move he described as a protest against the league's gender eligibility criteria. He was later ejected from a Chicago Sky game following a courtside altercation.
In an email sent to Kanter's representatives, the WNBA stated, "With respect to your questions regarding eligibility, only women are eligible to play in the WNBA and the individuals you cite in your letter are both men." The league also addressed Kanter's ejection from the game, referencing the WNBA Fan Code of Conduct which prohibits disruptive behavior and can lead to ejection.
Kanter responded to the league's decision on social media platform X, questioning the WNBA's authority to define his identity and their ability to determine who is a man without defining what constitutes a woman. He criticized the league for what he perceived as hypocrisy, stating, "Apparently, the WNBA still can't define what a WOMAN is, but they're absolutely certain they know what a MAN is!"
The WNBA's email also emphasized the league's commitment to player safety and well-being, noting efforts to address online hate and vitriol directed at WNBA players. The league reiterated its aim to apply its rules and disciplinary processes consistently for all participants.
Kanter's initial declaration for the draft in August included a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, stating his intent to enter the player pool for the 2027 WNBA Draft, citing his age and lack of remaining intercollegiate eligibility as per league requirements.