Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Transactions

Royce White criticizes WNBA's stance on transgender athletes

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 8:33 AM

Last updated Aug 10, 2026

Royce White criticizes WNBA's stance on transgender athletes

Summary

Royce White has publicly criticized the WNBA's policies regarding transgender athletes amid ongoing debates prompted by Sophie Cunningham's comments against inclusion. White suggested that the league's inability to define 'W' in its name is problematic, making an unexpected reference to LeBron James. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert addressed the league's approach to transgender athlete participation in a memo to teams, acknowledging the importance of the issue. Engelbert has faced scrutiny for her handling of this situation, leading to speculation about her future in the role.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Royce White criticized WNBA's definition of women in the league.
•Sophie Cunningham's comments sparked backlash and debate.
•WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert issued a memo addressing concerns.
•Engelbert's leadership is under scrutiny amid the controversy.

Latest Updates

8:33 AMYahoo Sports — “WNBA can’t define W in the name” – Royce White Quips Over WNBA’s Approach to Trans Athlete Debate With Unexpected LeBron James Mention

What they're saying

"
The WNBA has been in hot water since Sophie Cunningham came out openly against the inclusion of transgender players. Since then, the league has attracted political and nonpolitical criticism for its vague policies regarding the definition of participants.
— Yahoo Sports

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