The WNBA speaks out after the controversy over allowing trans players to play or not

The debate about whether or not trans women should play in the WNBA has increased in volume in recent days between statements from players and coaches and also the controversial words of former NBA players. Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce Whitewho mocked the debate by saying they were showing up for next year’s WNBA draft.

After all the dust that arose, the WNBA commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, sent a memo about it to the teams.

“I know that many of you have received questions in recent weeks regarding the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports and I hope that this issue continues to receive a lot of attention. I wanted to reach out to share how we are approaching these conversations in the league office and to thank those of you who have responded to media questions sensibly and professionally,” the executive said in a document obtained by ESPN and The Associated Press.

“The league will always approach this issue in a way that is sensible, respectful and aligned with our long-standing league values. Second, the rules of our player eligibility, unlike the eligibility rules of some other leagues and governing bodies, are the result of collective bargaining. Finally, preserving the integrity of our game and ensuring that fair competition always remains remain among the league’s highest priorities,” Cathy Engelbert also said.

“We recognize that this is a complex topic and with nuances and we will continue to have important conversations with all of you and the Players Association in the coming weeks and months. We also plan to host additional conversations and offer sessions to those team leaders who want to participate. Your perspectives and opinions are very valuable, and I thank those who have already reached out to share what they think,” added Engelbert.

WNBA players as the center of the Seattle Storm Stephanie Dolson and coaches like the Minnesota Lynx, Cheryl Reeve, They showed their support for trans athletes.

“We need to protect trans children. For me, it’s a human rights issue. Every child has the right to sport,” Reeve said.

For his part, the Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham, supported the ban on not allowing trans girls and women to participate in women’s sports.