sports
WNBA condemns ‘bad-faith’ efforts to fuel transgender player debate
The WNBA on Wednesday criticized those trying to create a narrative about transgender women playing in the league.
TL;DR
- The WNBA has criticized attempts to create a narrative about transgender women playing in the league.
- A league spokesperson stated there are no immediate eligibility matters affecting the WNBA and denounced "bad-faith efforts" to demean others.
- The WNBA's collective bargaining agreement states only women are eligible to play, without specific language on gender identity.
- Two former NBA players have declared themselves eligible for the WNBA draft, identifying as women.
- There has never been a transgender woman on a WNBA roster, though players who transitioned have been on rosters.
- An anti-hate task force met to discuss topics including transgender athletes and online abuse directed at WNBA players.
- WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert sent a memo acknowledging the complexity of the topic and the need for ongoing discussions.
- The players' union condemned hate and abuse towards transgender people and stated they would not be used as political pawns.
- Some players, like Sophie Cunningham, have voiced opposition to transgender girls and women in women's sports, while others, like Stefanie Dolson and Cheryl Reeve, support transgender athletes.