WNBA Finals Set Against Ideological Battle Over Inclusivity
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As the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries compete for the title, the league faces a growing conflict between anti-trans activists and a pro-LGBTQ+ fanbase.
As the WNBA finals between the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries begin Saturday in San Francisco, the league is grappling with a surge of right-wing activism targeting trans women in sports, as The Guardian first reported.
The friction intensified in July following comments from Indiana Fever backup guard Sophie Cunningham, who told ESPN she wanted to protect girls in sports from competing against "biological men." The Guardian reports that Fox News aired over 200 segments in July, most focusing on Cunningham's remarks. Additionally, the sportswear company XX-XY—whose name refers to biological sex chromosomes—has lobbied legislatures and leagues to exclude players based on biological sex at birth, with its founder appearing courtside with Cunningham and commentator Riley Gaines.
While the WNBA has no explicit rule barring or permitting trans women and currently has no trans women in the league, players and fans have pushed back against anti-trans rhetoric. The Guardian notes that Golden State Valkyries' Gabby Williams and Chicago Sky's Natasha Cloud have voiced support for the trans community, with Williams stating in May she would welcome a trans teammate.
Resistance has also manifested in the stands and ownership ranks. The Guardian reports that Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton was fined and suspended by the WNBA after confronting XX-XY-sponsored attendees during a July game. Meanwhile, fans at venues like Wilka’s Sports Bar in Manhattan continue to advocate for inclusion, mirroring a broader national debate. Anna Castro, deputy communications director at the Transgender Law Center, told The Guardian the backlash is an attempt to rile up those with anti-gender ideologies.