WNBA Says Former NBA Players Not Eligible After Draft Declarations

The Women's National Basketball Association has ruled that former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White are not eligible to enter the 2027 WNBA draft. Both athletes announced intentions to join the league after identifying as women, but league officials said the declarations do not meet eligibility requirements.

A league source said the announcements do not constitute a legitimate eligibility issue and that the WNBA will not allow external pressure or controversy to influence its processes. The league’s collective bargaining agreement includes a provision stating that only players who are women may compete in the WNBA, without reference to gender identity.

During a recent Indiana Fever–Chicago Sky game, Freedom was removed from the arena after a verbal exchange with Sky guard Natasha Cloud. Security intervened after Freedom stood up and raised his arms. He later told security he was supporting women and objected to his removal. A Sky spokesperson confirmed that Cloud spoke with league and team security after the incident. It remains unclear whether Freedom will be permitted to attend future WNBA events.