{
  "id": 282221,
  "title": "Former NBA Player Makes Stunning WNBA Draft Claim",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/07/former-nba-player-makes-stunning-wnba-draft-claim",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-07T21:34:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/former-nba-player-makes-stunning-wnba-draft-claim-12298703"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom has declared his eligibility for the WNBA draft, claiming he meets all the necessary requirements. In a video shared on social media, Freedom explained that he and his team have thoroughly examined the WNBA's eligibility criteria and found that he can officially enter the draft. He emphasized his commitment to equality and adherence to the league's stated principles. Kanter, known for his 6'10\" and 250-pound frame, played in the NBA for the Utah Jazz, Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers. The WNBA has not yet released an official statement regarding Freedom's draft claim, but they have previously stated their commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. If accepted, Freedom would become the first openly Muslim player in the WNBA. The 2027 WNBA draft is scheduled for May 2027, with several highly-touted college prospects expected to be picked in the draft.",
  "summary": "Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom has declared his eligibility for the WNBA draft, claiming that he meets all the necessary requirements based on the current guidelines. In a video posted on X, Kanter stated that he and his team have carefully examined the WNBA's eligibility criteria and are confident they can compete in the league. Kanter also emphasized that he is not mocking or disrespecting any community or personal choices and is simply asking that the current rules be applied equally and consistently to everyone. The Indiana Fever star Sophie Cunningham recently made controversial remarks about transgender athletes, which sparked outrage and backlash against her and the league. As of now, the WNBA has not released a specific statement about Kanter Freedom's video or draft claim, but they have stated that they embrace justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion and would not be used as political pawns.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}