The conversation around transgender athletes in women's basketball has taken a new turn. Julie Tétart, a French player who has been dominant in her country's second division, says she would welcome the chance to play in the WNBA if a team ever came calling. Her remarks arrive as the league continues to grapple with the fallout from Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's outspoken views on transgender participation.
From France to the spotlight
Tétart, who came out as transgender in 2021, has become a household name in French women's basketball circles. Standing at 6'3", she has averaged around 21 points and 20 rebounds per game during the 2025-26 season, with one game where she pulled down 30 boards. Her performances have earned her individual honors and turned her into a symbol for those advocating for transgender inclusion in sports.
But her path to the WNBA is far from straightforward. No team has publicly expressed interest, and the league hasn't indicated it's evaluating her for a roster spot. Tétart herself acknowledged the hurdles, saying, "If they contact me, I won't say no," while also noting that her age and the sheer competitiveness of the league make an opportunity unlikely.
The Cunningham effect
Tétart's comments come at a time when Sophie Cunningham has been at the center of a firestorm. Cunningham has argued that women shouldn't be forced to compete against athletes she describes as biologically male, framing her stance as a matter of fairness and protecting women's sports. She's insisted she doesn't hate transgender people, but critics say her language is exclusionary and fuels a hostile environment.
The debate has spilled beyond the court, with Cunningham's political views becoming a flashpoint in the league. Tétart hasn't directly challenged Cunningham, but her timing has placed her squarely in the same conversation.
What would it take for Tétart to join the WNBA?
For Tétart to actually play in the WNBA, she'd need more than just public interest. She'd have to meet the league's eligibility requirements, which include age, draft status, and any applicable medical and policy standards. Then she'd need a team to take a chance on her, competing against established pros and top draft picks for a limited number of roster spots.
The WNBA hasn't publicly addressed Tétart's individual case, and until a team shows interest or the league begins a formal evaluation, any talk of her joining remains speculative. Still, her story has resonated with many, especially in the Latino community, where conversations about identity and belonging are deeply familiar.
As the debate continues, it's clear that Tétart's dream is about more than just basketball. It's about representation and the right to compete at the highest level, regardless of one's gender identity. Whether or not she ever steps on a WNBA court, her presence has already made an impact.
