Former NBA big man Enes Kanter Freedom has taken another step in his controversial push to enter the WNBA, formally submitting a declaration for the 2027 WNBA Draft.
Freedom shared a copy of the document on his Instagram Story on Monday, writing, "Officially official, @wnba" and adding the hashtag #LetFreedomPlay.
The letter, dated August 6, was addressed to the WNBA League Office and WNBA Player Personnel, with commissioner Cathy Engelbert copied on the document.
"Please accept this formal document as my official written notification to the Women's National Basketball Association of my voluntary decision to enter the player pool for the 2027 WNBA Draft," Freedom wrote.
He added that he was submitting the notice to "exercise my draft rights," citing his age and lack of remaining college eligibility under Article XIII, Section 1(b) of the league's collective bargaining agreement.
Freedom concluded by asking the WNBA to verify receipt and direct any future communication regarding his registration to his personal email address.
Freedom follows through on WNBA Draft announcement
The paperwork comes days after Freedom publicly announced his intention to declare for the 2027 draft amid the ongoing debate surrounding transgender athlete eligibility in women's sports.
Freedom previously said his team had reviewed the league's eligibility regulations and presented his move as a challenge to what he considers inconsistencies in the WNBA's rules.
He also stressed that his announcement was intended to raise questions about competitive fairness rather than mock transgender people.
However, submitting a draft declaration does not by itself establish that Freedom is eligible to be selected.
Under Article XIII of the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement, the league states that only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA.
Draft eligibility requirements separately include age, education, and remaining intercollegiate eligibility.
WNBA controversy continues
Freedom's declaration has become part of a wider debate around eligibility rules in the league.
The WNBPA recently responded to the controversy by reaffirming its commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion while condemning hate and the demonization of transgender people.
WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert has also indicated that league leadership intends to continue discussions surrounding the issue.
Reports said team presidents and general managers are expected to be involved in those conversations as the league evaluates its approach.
Freedom, 34, spent 11 seasons in the NBA before last appearing in the league during the 2021-22 campaign.