Enes Kanter argues WNBA draft eligibility as trans athlete
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 25, 2026, 3:35 PM
Last updated Aug 25, 2026

Enes Kanter has declared his intention to enter the WNBA draft, claiming league rules permit his participation as a trans athlete. After officials reportedly deemed him ineligible, he counters that the WNBA's rulebook lacks a clear definition of 'woman,' allowing him to assert his eligibility. Kanter raised concerns over Article XIII, Section 1(a) of the collective bargaining agreement, arguing it does not specify biological criteria. Following a recent incident at Wintrust Arena during a game between the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever, he noted he is ready to accept the league's decision if they provide a definition. Kanter's situation continues to generate significant discussion regarding the league's policies.
- •Kanter claims the WNBA rulebook allows trans athletes to compete.
- •League officials reportedly consider Kanter ineligible for the draft.
- •Article XIII, Section 1(a) does not clearly define 'woman'.
- •Kanter made his declaration after a recent game incident.
- •Debate over eligibility criteria is ongoing in the WNBA.
- 3:35 PMYahoo Sports — ‘I Am Actually Allowed to Play’ – Enes Kanter Exposes WNBA’s Rulebook After Declaring for Draft As a Trans Athlete
"Former NBA center Enes Kanter is doubling down on his WNBA draft campaign, claiming the league’s own rulebook technically permits him to play as a trans athlete. After front-office officials reportedly told media outlets he would be ineligible in the WNBA, Kanter countered on Fox News, insisting official league guidelines still leave the door wide open.
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