Golden State Valkyries star Gabby Williams has voiced support for transgender athletes in women's sports, stating she would "welcome a trans athlete on my team or against my team, anytime." Williams, in a recently surfaced interview, described transgender rights as "our new battle" and emphasized that transgender people are facing the stripping away of their rights.

Williams' comments stand in contrast to those made by Indiana Fever forward Sophie Cunningham, who recently stated that young girls "shouldn't have to go against biological men" in sports. Cunningham has faced backlash for her stance during the Fever's road games, with some fans showing support through signs and T-shirts, while others have protested.

Williams referenced Layshia Clarendon, the WNBA's first openly non-binary player, in her remarks. Clarendon, who came out as non-binary in 2020, concluded their 11-year WNBA career in 2024.

The WNBA currently has no transgender players who were assigned male at birth, and historically, such players have been exceedingly rare in the league. In 2024, NCAA president Charlie Baker estimated fewer than 10 transgender student athletes were competing at the collegiate level.

Cunningham, despite the criticism, has maintained her position, stating that she was asked a question and was attempting to "clear the air" when she made her initial comments in February. She has indicated a desire to focus on the current season.

Meanwhile, protests and supportive rallies have occurred. Outside Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, a lone protester supported Cunningham's stance, while signs inside read, "I want to play like Sophie" and "Thank you for standing up for girls, Sophie!" This contrasts with receptions in Seattle, Portland, and Minnesota, where opposing coaches displayed messages of support for transgender children. Political activist Riley Gaines claimed that a WNBA staffer asked her to lower a sign supporting Cunningham. Political activist Riley Gaines claimed that a WNBA staffer told her to put down her sign which threw support behind star Sophie Cunningham amid the ongoing trans athlete debate A rally in support of trans athletes was also noted. A protestor speaks in favor of trans athletes amid the nationwide debate over the issue

Williams' perspective highlights a division within the league and broader societal discussions regarding transgender participation in sports. The Golden State Valkyries' Gabby Williams said she'd welcome a trans player to the WNBA

The Fever are scheduled to play in Chicago next, where Cunningham's stance is expected to continue drawing attention.