WNBA faces backlash as former NBA players declare for draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 11, 2026, 11:00 AM
Last updated Aug 11, 2026
The WNBA is experiencing notable backlash amid its 30th season's success, highlighted by former NBA players Royce White and Enes Kanter Freedom announcing their intention to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft. Their declarations, framed as protests against transgender participation in women's sports, have ignited controversy. Despite their past struggles in the NBA, both players have drawn attention with their statements and social media activity, reflecting ongoing tensions surrounding the league's growing prominence and support for female athletes. Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeves recently showed solidarity for transgender rights during a game against the Fever, emphasizing the league's progressive stance.
- •Former NBA players Royce White and Enes Kanter Freedom declare for 2027 WNBA Draft.
- •White and Kanter Freedom's actions are seen as a backlash against WNBA's success.
- •Cheryl Reeves supported transgender rights with a shirt during a recent game.
- •WNBA reports high ratings and improved franchise investments this season.
- •The league's popularity continues to evoke mixed reactions regarding women's sports.
- 11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Op-Ed: The WNBA’s success has inspired unfortunately predictable backlash from men who feel threatened
"The proposed WNBA stunt of two former NBA players is an example of the toxic backlash that follows women’s success.
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