Robin Lopez weighs in on debate over ex-NBA players' WNBA draft plans
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 5:00 AM
Last updated Aug 10, 2026
Robin Lopez, former Phoenix Suns center, has responded to the announcement of Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White intending to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft. Their declarations are prompting discussions surrounding the WNBA's eligibility rules for transgender athletes. The existing collective bargaining agreement specifies that only women can participate, but lacks clarity on gender identity. This topic gained attention after controversial comments from former Phoenix Mercury player Sophie Cunningham. The WNBA Players Association has focused on inclusion amid these debates. Discussions on transgender participation will continue between the league's commissioner and team executives.
- •Lopez engaged in public discourse on transgender athlete eligibility.
- •Kanter Freedom and White announced plans to declare for the 2027 draft.
- •Current eligibility rules do not clearly define gender identity.
- •The debate follows recent controversial comments from Sophie Cunningham.
- •Ongoing discussions are planned regarding these participation policies.
- 5:00 AMYahoo Sports — Former Phoenix Suns center responds to two ex-NBA players’ WNBA plans
"PHOENIX — Former Phoenix Suns center Robin Lopez has entered the growing debate over transgender eligibility in the WNBA, responding to news of two former NBA players’ plans to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft. Editor’s note: This story contains strong language in a social media post quoted by Robin Lopez.
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