Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom has declared himself eligible for the 2027 WNBA Draft, according to a social media post he shared on Friday.
Kanter Freedom, who was the third overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, played 11 seasons in the league. He suited up for teams including the Utah Jazz, Oklahoma City Thunder, Boston Celtics, and Portland Trail Blazers before last playing in 2022.
What Kanter Freedom Said
In his announcement, Kanter Freedom explained that he had reviewed the WNBA’s current eligibility rules before making his decision. He said that based on those guidelines, he believed he qualified to compete in the league. He also said his team had closely studied the WNBA’s policies on self-identification and inclusion before he made the announcement.
Kanter Freedom added that he expected his declaration to spark strong reactions. However, he said he did not intend to mock the league, its players, or anyone’s personal choices. Instead, he said he simply wanted the same rules applied equally to everyone.
Why This Announcement Is Getting Attention
This declaration comes during an ongoing conversation in women’s sports about eligibility rules and inclusion. Several coaches and players around the WNBA have recently shared differing opinions on the topic, which has kept the issue in the spotlight.
Kanter Freedom’s post quickly spread across social media, drawing a wide range of reactions from fans, commentators, and sports personalities. Some viewed his announcement as a pointed statement about league policy, while others reacted with confusion or criticism.
What Happens Next
As of now, the WNBA has not issued any official response to Kanter Freedom’s announcement. There is also no indication that he plans to formally pursue a roster spot ahead of the draft, which is expected to take place in 2027.
Editor’s Note:
Whatever people make of the announcement, it has clearly succeeded in getting people talking, and that appears to have been part of the point. Debates about eligibility rules in sports are ongoing across many leagues, and this is likely not the last headline we will see on the topic.
According to Fox News/OutKick, Yahoo Sports, and BroBible
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