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WNBA Limits On Inclusion Tested - Stephen A. Smith Explodes
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WNBA Limits On Inclusion Tested - Stephen A. Smith Explodes

The WNBA has enjoyed one of the biggest surges in attention in its history, thanks in large part to stars like Caitlin Clark. Yet instead of keeping the focus on basketball, the league continues to find itself pulled into political and cultural battles.

The latest controversy centers on Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, who has publicly expressed the view that women's sports should be reserved for biological females. Her comments sparked criticism from activists and some within the basketball community, reigniting a debate that has become increasingly common across professional sports.


Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve added to that conversation by wearing a shirt reading "Trans Kids Belong" during a recent game against the Fever. The message drew praise from supporters but also criticism from those who believe the issue of transgender participation in women's sports deserves a more nuanced discussion.

Among the critics was ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith, who argued that supporting transgender individuals should not prevent honest debate about competitive fairness.

"Ladies and gentlemen, at some point in time, there has to be the return of common sense," Smith said on his YouTube show, according to the Daily Mail. "This is not about preaching hate. Nobody is supporting that."

"This is not about looking at people who are trans and hating on them or wanting them denied their civil rights and civil liberties."


Smith then turned his attention to Reeve's public display.

"You are Cheryl Reeve. The head coach of the Minnesota Lynx. That is an irresponsible thing to do," he said.

"You are a coach for a female basketball team. Do you not think that the females are being screwed over if they have to compete against an individual born as a male? What are you talking about?"


The debate has gained additional attention because of Julie Tétart, a transgender woman who has become one of the most productive players in France's Ligue 2 women's basketball league. According to reports, Tétart averaged 21 points and 20 rebounds per game for a Monaco club while earning Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Domestic Player of the Year honors.

The Daily Mail reported that Tétart's success generated considerable debate in France, with some questioning competitive fairness while others defended the player's participation.

Tétart has also spoken publicly about a long-term goal of playing in the WNBA.

"If they contact me, I won't say no," Tétart told OutKick. "But you have to be realistic: I'm old, and there are far better players than me!"


Whether that possibility ever becomes realistic remains uncertain, but the discussion has already expanded well beyond France. Questions about eligibility rules, biological differences, and competitive balance continue to divide athletes, fans, and sports organizations.

The controversy has also reached beyond basketball. OutKick founder Clay Travis has publicly offered $10 million for the defending WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces to play a high school boys' basketball team, arguing that the result would demonstrate the athletic differences between male and female competition. No such game has been scheduled.

Written by Arthur Higgens - August 6, 2026