NBA legend Charles Barkley has voiced a strong opinion on the inclusion of transgender athletes in the WNBA, insisting that the league should remain exclusively for women. This stance has ignited discussions on whether transgender athletes should participate in the league. The case of French transgender basketball player Julie Tetart highlights this debate.

Emily Compagno, co-host of the program ‘Outnumbered,’ has discussed the recent disqualification of former NBA players Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White from the WNBA draft. According to two of her former teammates, the argument that Julie Tetart does not have a competitive advantage in the WNBA is disputed. They emphasize Tetart’s impressive physical power, likening it to ‘a train’ due to her dominating performance during the 2025-26 season.

Tetart averaged a record 20 points and 20 rebounds per game last season, raising questions about her potential impact if allowed in the WNBA.

Tetart, a standout in the French second division basketball league, expressed openness to playing in the WNBA, although she acknowledged the challenges. ‘If they contact me, I won’t say no. But I’m old, and there are far better players than me,’ Tetart remarked.

Martina Bestagno, a veteran player who has competed against top WNBA players like Brittney Griner, commented on Tetart’s strength during an interview with the ‘Club Five’ podcast. She noted that Tetart’s combined size and strength are unmatched in her experience.

Despite the WNBA’s public endorsement of inclusivity, the league has not yet extended an opportunity to Tetart. Bestagno and fellow player Sara Crudo both shared reservations about Tetart’s potential dominance in the league. ‘Basketball is not purely about physical strength,’ Bestagno explained.

Although Tetart’s physical presence is significant, her translation to success in the WNBA remains uncertain. Critics like ex-teammate Crudo argue that Tetart’s participation could be unfair, as it might limit opportunities for other female athletes. ‘Is it unfair to let Tetart play? Absolutely,’ she stated.

This controversy illuminates a complex discussion around gender, sports, and what defines fairness in competitive environments. As Tetart resumes play in the French league, the conversation about transgender athletes in sports continues to evolve.