WNBA rejects Enes Kanter's draft request amid controversy
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 21, 2026, 6:53 AM
Last updated Oct 21, 2026
The WNBA confirmed that Enes Kanter Freedom will not be eligible for the 2027 draft, citing his status as a biological male. Riley Gaines criticized the league's decision, questioning its consistency in defining gender. Gaines noted the league's previous indecisiveness regarding transgender athletes and highlighted their prompt exclusion of Kanter. The situation has drawn scrutiny toward WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert as she navigates these contentious issues.
- •Enes Kanter Freedom's draft request rejected by WNBA.
- •Riley Gaines questions league's gender definitions on social media.
- •WNBA faces backlash over handling of transgender athletes.
- •Cathy Engelbert's leadership under scrutiny during this controversy.
- 6:53 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Is it because they’re transphobic?’: Riley Gaines bashes WNBA for Enes Kanter decision
"Riley Gaines dropped a brutal response to the WNBA not allowing Enes Kanter to play in the league. It’s official, former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom won’t feature in the 2027 WNBA Draft, as the league has rejected his request.
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