WNBA addresses backlash after anti-hate task force meeting on inclusion

The WNBA issued a statement on Thursday after a meeting of its anti‑hate task force to address growing criticism over its handling of player conduct and inclusion policies. The statement followed fan backlash over how the league treated Caitlin Clark, a high‑profile college star drafted in 2024, and Enes Freedom, a Turkish player who announced his intention to join the league amid concerns about his conduct. It also came after Sophie Cunningham’s comments about transgender athletes sparked a heated debate on social media.

The league has been under scrutiny for months. Fans and advocacy groups have called for clearer rules on player