# Ex-NBA stars declare for WNBA draft, transgender rule row erupts

2026-08-08T09:55:29+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Former NBA players Royce White and Enes Kanter Freedom have announced they will enter the 2027 WNBA Draft, reigniting the transgender eligibility debate in women's sports. White, a Republican Senate candidate, told Fox News Digital on Friday he identifies as transgender. Kanter Freedom declared himself eligible the same day, saying he had studied the league's policies. The WNBA's 2026 collective bargaining agreement says only women are eligible but does not define the term or set a transgender policy. Neither man has been confirmed eligible. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said team presidents and general managers will discuss the issue next week. Martina Navratilova called the announcements a sign that "the gates have opened," urging a clearer rule.

## Coverage

- timesnownews.com <https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/nba/ex-nba-stars-royce-white-enes-freedom-declare-for-wnba-draft-whats-behind-the-transgender-controversy-article-155385640>
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/international-sports/kanter-and-white-wnba-eligibility-martina-navratilova-reacts-as-former-nba-players-challenge-the-leagues-rules-for-women/articleshow/133125182.cms>

Tags: eligibility, Enes Freedom, Royce White, transgender athletes, US sports, WNBA
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