Enes Kanter Freedom declares for 2027 WNBA Draft in protest

Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom has declared his intention to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft as a satirical protest against the league’s current eligibility policies. Freedom argues that because the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement states only “women” are eligible to play but fails to provide a formal definition of the term, the league must allow him to participate.

In response to the controversy, Caitlyn Jenner revealed on the Planet Tyrus podcast that she jokingly suggested to Freedom that she might also declare for the 2027 draft. While Jenner’s comments were not presented as a serious pursuit, they highlight the ongoing debate regarding gender identity and biological sex in professional sports.

The WNBA has not yet responded to Freedom’s application. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has indicated to executives that the league is reviewing long-term transgender eligibility policies, though she has stated there are currently “no transgender problems” within the league.

This dispute follows previous tensions involving Freedom, including a federal lawsuit filed against the Chicago Sky and the City of Chicago following his ejection and an indefinite ban from Wintrust Arena.