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WNBA responds to lawmakers on eligibility definition amid leadership change

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 5:44 PM

Last updated Sep 17, 2026

WNBA responds to lawmakers on eligibility definition amid leadership change

Summary

The WNBA faces scrutiny over its player eligibility criteria as U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman and other lawmakers demand clarification on the term 'women' used in its rules. This request coincides with the league's preparation for a leadership transition as Commissioner Cathy Engelbert announces her retirement at the end of 2026. The lawmakers have set a deadline of October 16 for the league to provide details on its eligibility standards, particularly following the recent ineligibility ruling of former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White for the WNBA Draft. The WNBA’s rules do not clearly define the term 'women,' leading to uncertainty in its application.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Lawmakers demand clarity on WNBA's definition of 'women' for player eligibility.
•Engelbert will retire at the end of 2026, prompting leadership transition.
•Deadline for the league to respond to lawmakers is October 16.
•Recent ineligibility of Kanter Freedom and White raises questions over current rules.
•WNBA indicates continued dialogue on eligibility with stakeholders.

Latest Updates

5:44 PMYahoo Sports — WNBA Faces Pressure to Define ‘Women’ After US Representative Demands Answers

What they're saying

"
The WNBA is dealing with a rules question that has moved from public discussion into a formal request for answers. The issue arises as the league prepares for a leadership change and reviews a policy that could affect future player eligibility. The latest push comes from U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman and other lawmakers in a [...]
— Yahoo Sports

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