The WNBA is set to discuss policies regarding transgender athletes in women’s basketball at their upcoming league meetings. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert sent a memo to teams addressing the topic and expressing the league’s commitment to approaching the conversation thoughtfully and respectfully.
Player Eligibility and Fair Competition
The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement states that only players who are women are eligible to play in the league. However, it does not include specific language about gender identity or sex assigned at birth. The league will prioritize preserving the integrity of the game and ensuring fair competition.
Some players, including Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham, have voiced support for barring transgender girls and women from girls’ and women’s sports. Others, such as Seattle Storm’s Stefanie Dolson and Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, have come out in support of transgender athletes.
The WNBA players’ association released a statement emphasizing diversity and inclusion, while also stating that they will not be used as political pawns. The league will continue to have important conversations with players, teams, and the Players Association in the weeks and months ahead.
Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.
