WNBA Commissioner Addresses Eligibility Inquiry Involving Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert responded to questions from Republican lawmakers, clarifying that former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White cannot join the league due to being men. The inquiry from Rep. Marlin Stutzman and others sought answers on eligibility and transgender athlete policies. Engelbert reiterated that the WNBA is exclusively for women, though it does not define the term ‘women’ in its collective bargaining agreement.

The lawmakers questioned Engelbert’s decision, with Freedom expressing confusion over the eligibility criteria. He emphasized his identity as a woman while challenging the absence of a defined policy. Engelbert’s letter did not introduce new rules or a broader transgender athlete policy.

Engelbert defended league processes on safety concerns, confirming the enforcement of rules during games through officials and post-game reviews. Fans are required to adhere to a code of conduct, with potential ejection for violations. Recent controversies included incidents between players and spectators and responses to anthem protests during the WNBA Finals.

Freedom’s efforts aim to prompt the league to establish clear definitions regarding eligibility for women’s categories. Despite being ejected and banned from Chicago Sky home games, he intends to continue his bid to join the WNBA, advocating for clarity in the eligibility policy.

As Commissioner Engelbert plans her retirement at the end of 2026, Freedom hopes her successor will further address these eligibility challenges. He advocates for adding ‘biological’ to eligibility requirements to resolve ongoing debates, suggesting such change would end his campaign for inclusion.