NBA legend Charles Barkley didn’t mince words when it came to his thoughts on NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert following the viral incident of Enes Kanter.
Kanter attended the Indiana Fever‘s contest against the Chicago Sky on Aug. 23. He sat courtside while wearing a shirt that defined what a woman was, being critical of having transgender players take part in women’s sports. Confronting Sky star Natasha Cloud during the game, security eventually ejected Kanter out of the arena.
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The incident garnered plenty of reactions from multiple areas. It would come across Barkley’s radar, who often provides his stance on social issues. He appeared for an interview on SiriusXM, calling out Kanter for his antics while giving credence to his argument.
“First of all, I always support the gay community. I always support the transgender community,” he said. “I got nothing but love and respect for gay people and transgender people, but under no circumstances do I think men should play against women. Zero. I’m disappointed in Adam Silver and Cathy [Engelbert], the commissioner.”
“People are looking for attention now,” Barkley said of Kanter and others who are looking to capitalize on the politicization of the league. “But he has a point though.”
What’s Next for WNBA After Enes Kanter Incident
WNBA: Indiana Fever at Chicago Sky
Aug 23, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Fans react as Turkish-American former basketball player and human rights activist Enes Kanter Freedom is removed from the arena during the second half against the Indiana Fever at Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
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There will always be attention on the WNBA, whether it’s for the performances of star players or the raging debate about transgender athletes.
Enes Kanter’s incident was the first time he attempted this and may not be the last. He and other media figures will argue about the topic, one that doesn’t impact the league with no transgender athletes being present.
It is up to Adam Silver and Cathy Engelbert to set the record straight on the topic. They must make things clear that will protect the integrity of the WNBA while emphasizing that everyone is following the rulebook the league implemented long ago.
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