In a memo sent to team members, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has acknowledged the ongoing debate about transgender athletes in women's basketball. The league will discuss the issue further at an upcoming meeting of team presidents and general managers. The controversy was sparked by comments from Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham, who supports barring transgender girls and women from girls' and women's sports. There have been protests both in support and against this viewpoint. The league has not made any public comments on the issue, but Engelbert emphasized that the WNBA will approach the topic thoughtfully, respectfully, and in alignment with its longstanding values. She also stated that player eligibility rules are collectively bargained and preserving the integrity of the game remains a priority. The league's collective bargaining agreement specifies that only women are eligible to play in the WNBA, but it does not include any specific language about gender identity or sex assigned at birth. Two former NBA players, Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White, have declared themselves eligible for the WNBA draft, identifying as women. The league will continue conversations with all parties involved, including the Players Association, and plans to convene additional discussions and listening sessions for team leaders. Some players and coaches, such as Seattle Storm center Stefanie Dolson and Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, have expressed support for transgender athletes, viewing it as a human rights issue. The WNBA players' association has emphasized diversity and inclusion while stating that the group will not be used as political pawns.