Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom announces eligibility for 2027 WNBA draft
Enes Kanter Freedom said he meets the WNBA’s eligibility rules and will enter the 2027 draft, prompting discussion about the league’s policies on gender identity.
Former NBA first-round pick Enes Kanter Freedom said he is eligible to enter the Women’s National Basketball Association draft scheduled for May 2027. In a social-media post, Freedom stated, "If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA." He added that his team has reviewed the league’s eligibility criteria and related regulations.
Freedom’s declaration comes amid ongoing debate over the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports. Some WNBA players and coaches, including forward Gabby Williams, have expressed openness to transgender athletes joining their teams.
Freedom said, "I am not here to mock or disrespect any community; I am simply asking that the current rules be applied equally to everyone." He concluded by saying his team is prepared to ensure the guidelines are applied consistently and looks forward to the league’s response.
The WNBA has not yet commented on Freedom’s eligibility claim.