NBA player stirs WNBA trans athlete debate with controversial comments

Matt Ryan backs Enes Kanter Freedom's anti-trans stance, igniting backlash.

Told by Claire Lawson · 29 August 2026

Former NBA player Matt Ryan has jumped into the contentious debate surrounding trans athletes in women’s sports, specifically targeting the WNBA’s policies. In a recent social media post, he defended fellow former player Enes Kanter Freedom, who has gained notoriety for his vocal opposition to trans participation in the league.

Ryan shared a screenshot of his Instagram commentary, which described the current climate as 'insane' and claimed that Kanter Freedom was 'demonized for trying to PROTECT women’s sports.' He asserted that defining what constitutes a woman is straightforward and that anyone not born as a woman shouldn’t compete in women’s sports.

While he insists his stance isn’t transphobic, many see it as a blatant attempt to enforce outdated gender norms. Ryan believes that over 80% of Americans share his perspective, claiming they can clearly define a woman and agree with his opposition to trans athletes in women’s sports.

Critics, including radio host Charlamagne tha God, have pointed out the absurdity of men like Ryan and Kanter Freedom inserting themselves into discussions about women’s rights. He emphasized that true protection of women’s spaces doesn’t come from making the debate about oneself. Social media reactions further echoed this sentiment, questioning the existence of the crisis Ryan and Kanter Freedom allege, particularly noting that there has yet to be an out trans player in the WNBA.

This controversy comes on the heels of WNBA player Sophie Cunningham's statements supporting the exclusion of trans women from women’s sports, igniting a wider conversation and prompting activism on both sides.