From OutKick · Scott Thompson · · 1m 40s
Carmelo Anthony: WNBA Commissioner Must Prioritize Player Safety
Carmelo Anthony says WNBA's next commissioner must protect players from safety risks.
In brief
Carmelo Anthony says WNBA's next commissioner must protect players from safety risks. Carmelo Anthony urges WNBA's new commissioner to prioritize player safety amid transgender eligibility debates and anthem protests. Originally reported by OutKick.
Carmelo Anthony on WNBA growth
NBA legend Carmelo Anthony says the WNBA is growing in popularity with 91 million unique viewers and 3.8 million fans attending games.
WNBA's safety concerns
The league faces transgender athlete eligibility debates and national anthem protests after players like Freedom and White declared for the 2027 WNBA Draft.
Cathy Engelbert retiring
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will retire at the end of the 2026 calendar year, with the league choosing a new commissioner next season.
Carmelo Anthony's priority
Anthony says the new commissioner must invest in players and protect them to make the WNBA the best women's league globally.
Player partnership approach
Anthony emphasizes collaboration with players, wanting to hear their feedback on issues to build the league together.
Transgender eligibility debate
The league's rules allow transgender athletes but lack a clear definition of 'woman,' causing disputes with players like Freedom and White.
National anthem protests
Teams have walked off the court during WNBA Finals before the national anthem, drawing criticism for breaking league traditions.
Carmelo Anthony's view on growth
Anthony loves the WNBA's growth, talent, and skill level, calling it a 'beautiful thing' to watch the league evolve.
DraftKings partnership
Anthony partners with DraftKings for a national campaign with Kevin Hart and Nick Jonas to promote basketball across all 50 states.
What happens next
The WNBA will choose a new commissioner next season to address player safety and league growth concerns.
The headline
Carmelo Anthony urges WNBA's new commissioner to prioritize player safety amid transgender eligibility debates and anthem protests.
