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![\"WNBA](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/6a6557719461a9de0549288cjpeg.jpg\")
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert talks to media at a news conference before a WNBA All-Star basketball game between Team Coop and Team Spoon in Chicago, Saturday, July 25, 2026. (AP Photo\/Nam Y. Huh)<\/p>\n
In an ESPN article published last month, Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham voiced support for barring transgender girls and women from girls\u2019 and women\u2019s sports. Cunningham\u2019s comments sparked small rallies and protests in Seattle and Portland when the Fever were on the road last week.<\/p>\n
There was a lone protester at the Fever\u2019s home game against Las Vegas on Thursday night. Indiana visits Chicago on Saturday. Members of two conservative groups are planning a rally in support of Cunningham ahead of that game.<\/p>\n
The league hasn\u2019t made any public comments on the issue.<\/p>\n
Engelbert wrote that the league will \u201calways approach this topic thoughtfully, respectfully, and in alignment with the longstanding values of our league. Second, our player eligibility rules, unlike the eligibility rules of some other leagues and governing bodies, are collectively bargained. Lastly, preserving the integrity of our game and ensuring fair competition will always remain among the league\u2019s highest priorities.\u201d<\/p>\n
The league\u2019s collective bargaining agreement states that \u201conly players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA,\u201d but it does not include any more specific language about gender identity or sex assigned at birth. On Friday, two former NBA players, Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White, declared themselves eligible for the WNBA draft, saying they identify as women.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe recognize that this is a complex and nuanced topic, and we will continue to have important conversations with all of you and the Players Association in the weeks and months ahead,\u201d Engelbert said in the memo. \u201cWe also plan to convene additional discussions and offer listening sessions for any team leaders who would like to participate. Your perspectives and feedback are invaluable, and I appreciate those who have already reached out to share their thoughts.\u201d<\/p>\n
The WNBA players\u2019 association released a statement on social media Friday that emphasized diversity and inclusion while saying the group \u201cwill not be used as political pawns.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n\t\tWinnipeg Free Press | Newsletter\n\t<\/p>\n
\t\t\tThe Warm-Up<\/p>\n
Winnipeg Jets Game Days<\/p>\n
On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop.<\/p>\n