Former NBA players criticized for WNBA stunt amid trans athlete debate

Former NBA players Enes Kanter and Royce White attracted controversy after announcing a plan to try out for the WNBA, a move that prompted criticism from former ESPN analyst Ryan Clark on his podcast The Pivot. Clark said the former athletes should refrain from commenting on issues they do not understand, describing their remarks as "absolute clowns" and urging them to stay out of the debate.

Former NFL player Channing Crowder also expressed concern that the league and its broadcast partners were allowing gossip to dominate coverage, questioning why discussions about the WNBA focus on off-court stories rather than the game itself.

The incident follows earlier comments by Indiana Fever forward Sophie Cunningham, who voiced opposition to transgender women in women's-sports locker rooms, and a separate social-media dispute involving Chicago Sky player Dijonai Carrington, who posted a "white privilege" comment after a foul.

Commentators such as Fred Taylor noted that the WNBA faces a balancing act between growing its audience and navigating social-justice initiatives, suggesting that excessive politicizing could alienate some fans. Clark called on WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert to address the narrative and ensure that league priorities remain clear.