FIBA and WNBA maintain separate eligibility policies for transgender athletes

The WNBA and FIBA are currently operating under distinct regulatory frameworks regarding transgender eligibility ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The WNBA relies on Collective Bargaining Agreement language stipulating that only women are eligible for play, without providing specific medical or biological definitions. Conversely, FIBA prohibits transgender athletes from participating in elite international events, following an updated International Olympic Committee framework that utilizes genetic screening. While FIBA has currently closed the door on these requests, it is collecting data and expects a Gender Eligibility Committee to present recommendations to its Central Board in 2027. The WNBA continues to face internal and external pressure to clarify its eligibility criteria as figures including Sophie Cunningham, Enes Kanter, and Royce White draw public attention to the current lack of defined standards.

• 12:05 PMYahoo Sports — Transgender eligibility at 2026 World Cup: How FIBA rules differ from the WNBA