The WNBA's transgender debate has taken a bizarre turn, and now a former NBA big man is stepping in to shut it down. Robin Lopez, known for his no-nonsense attitude, didn't hold back when reacting to Enes Kanter and Royce White's recent declarations for the 2027 WNBA draft.
Kanter and White, both former NBA players, announced their intentions to enter the WNBA draft, citing the league's inclusive policies on transgender athletes. Kanter took to social media to say, "If simply declaring who you are is all that's required, then I meet every single requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA." He added that his team had reviewed the league's eligibility criteria and that he was officially declaring for the draft.
White followed suit, claiming, "I'm transgender. I'm a woman. I identify as sometimes identifying as a woman for purpose of basketball, professional basketball, so I'll be declaring for the WNBA draft in 2027 as well." He boasted about his college stats at Iowa State, saying he'd be "unstoppable" and that he's a "team-first guy."
But Lopez wasn't having any of it. He fired back on social media, writing, "Biggest issue: If you're being drafted, people are saying 'we want you around for 4 years' & I can't imagine anybody wants Enes Kanter or Royce White around them for even 4 minutes. We've seen this illustrated whenever Enes is near Turkey or Royce comes close to logic/reality."
Lopez's comments are a sharp rebuke of the two players, who have a history of controversial statements. Kanter has been a vocal critic of the Turkish government, while White has made headlines for his unorthodox views on everything from mental health to politics.
The WNBA has been grappling with the issue of transgender participation, with players like Sophie Cunningham drawing criticism for saying transgender athletes have no place in women's sports. The league's stance has been supportive of inclusion, which Kanter and White are now exploiting.
Their declarations have sparked a firestorm, with many questioning their sincerity. As one fan put it, "This is a publicity stunt, not a serious bid." The WNBA has yet to comment on whether Kanter or White would be eligible, but the league's rules on self-identification could technically allow it.
For now, the ball is in the WNBA's court. But with Lopez's blistering take, it's clear that not everyone is amused by this latest twist in the ongoing saga. As the 2027 draft approaches, expect more drama from these two.
