WNBA coach Natalie Nakase defends transgender athletes

A debate over transgender athletes in women's sports has become a dominant storyline in the WNBA, drawing comments from players and coaches as the league navigates a deeply divisive national issue. The latest voice to join the discussion is Golden State Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase, who publicly advocated for inclusion following comments made by Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham.

The controversy began after Cunningham stated in a recent interview that she believes women's sports should be protected and that she does not support transgender women competing in them, citing a desire to protect young girls. Her remarks quickly ignited a league-wide conversation that has often overshadowed on-court action, leading to demonstrations outside arenas and frequent questions during media sessions.

Nakase addressed the topic after a Valkyries game, offering a perspective centered on belonging. She said she believes sports should be a place where people feel they belong, adding that she is all about women and little girls deserving to play, and that includes trans women. She connected her stance to her personal history, explaining that as a 5-foot-2 Japanese American woman, she...