Caitlyn Jenner urges WNBA to set clear transgender policy
Caitlyn Jenner urged the WNBA to adopt a definitive policy on transgender athlete participation, citing inconsistencies in the league’s current approach and invoking Title IX. The league also announced that its task force will spend weeks and months consulting stakeholders to define player-eligibility rules. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert earlier sent a memo saying a task force would continue discussions on transgender eligibility, emphasizing respect, fairness and league values. Former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White announced their intent to enter the 2027 draft, meeting eligibility requirements, which sparked criticism of the stunt.
Critics such as ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith argued the lack of clear rules invites political controversy, and former ESPN analyst Ryan Clark joined the criticism. Recent incidents involving players Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham and DiJonai Carrington have further fueled debate over the league’s handling of conduct and gender-eligibility issues.
