Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese earned ridicule from some WNBA fans and media personalities for her missed layup in the final seconds of regulation in Sunday’s 95-91 overtime loss to the Indiana Fever. Former NBA big man Enes Kanter Freedom took things a step further though.
If you’re unfamiliar, Kanter Freedom has added fuel to the ongoing fire surrounding transgender athletes in women’s sports, and the WNBA in particular. Last week, the 34-year-old officially “declared” for the 2027 WNBA Draft.
On Sunday night, Kanter Freedom singled out Reese on X, saying he would target the third-year pro if he played in the W.
‘The first player I’m on dunking on’
Kanter Freedom managed to taunt Reese and take an apparent shot at Boston Celtics wing Paul George in the same tweet.
“Sis! Once I go No. 1 pick in the 2027 @WNBA Draft, the first player I’m dunking on is Angel Reese. She’s the Paul George of the #WNBA. Just lean into the podcast already,” he wrote.
Like pretty much everything Kanter Freedom does these days, this goal of this tweet was to stir the pot and draw attention to himself. He’s usually pretty successful at doing those things, which doesn’t necessarily feel like a fulfilling way to live your life, but hey, it’s his choice.
‘Declaring’ his intentions
In another transparently obvious publicity stunt, Kanter announced on Aug. 7 he is planning to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft. The “decision” was part of the fallout stemming from Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham’s comments against transgender women in women’s sports.
“After careful consideration and reviewing the current eligibility guidelines, I’m officially declaring myself a (WNBA) prospect,” he posted on X. “If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every single requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA. My team and I have carefully examined the WNBA’s eligibility criteria and governing framework surrounding self-identification and inclusion.
“Based on the current guidelines, I can and am officially declaring my eligibility for the upcoming WNBA draft in April 2027. I know my presence on the court will stir up strong opinions. I am definitely not here to mock, make fun of, or disrespect any community or personal choices.
“I’m simply asking that the current rules be applied equally to everyone — the rules that represent the very values many WNBA players and coaches have publicly advocated for. My team and I are prepared to ensure these guidelines are applied equally, consistently, and without exception, and I look forward to the #WNBA honoring its stated principles.”
Needless to say, it doesn’t seem likely that Kanter Freedom will ever actually play in the WNBA.
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