During the Houston Rockets Media Day, Kevin Durant addressed reporters’ questions about the ongoing discussion led by Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White. These former basketball players are campaigning to prevent biological men from participating in women’s sports. Durant, however, chose not to engage with the debate directly. Instead, he highlighted the accomplishments of the WNBA, including its recent sneaker deals and financial gains.

“All that stuff used to be noise, man. WNBA is flourishing,” Durant said. “Look what these women are doing. Look at the money they’ve made over the last few years. Look at visibility of their league. They got four or five signature athletes on major brands that represent major brands. These women have brands for themselves, the business women for themselves outside the game.”

He acknowledged the political aspects brought into sports, expressing his focus on the sport’s growth. “A person like me who just strictly cares for the purity of the sport, I do not give a f*** about none of that. I care about flourishing and pushing the league forward and that’s what’s happening right now,” Durant continued.

On the other hand, Kanter Freedom and White have spent months vocal about what they consider gaps in the WNBA’s gender eligibility guidelines. They have announced intentions to “identify as women” for the 2027 WNBA Draft, aiming to highlight what they see as issues in the current rules.

Royce White criticized the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement, claiming the language is vague on gender identity and does not specifically require players to be biological females. Kanter Freedom’s activism led to a confrontation at a Chicago Sky game, which resulted in his ejection after a dispute with Sky guard Natasha Cloud. This event drew support for the ejection from players like Cameron Brink.

While Kanter Freedom and White continue to push for clear policies, Durant has opted to focus on the sport itself. The conversation surrounding gender eligibility in sports is ongoing, yet Durant’s stance emphasizes his dedication to the WNBA’s progression and achievements.