WASHINGTON, D.C. – Political firebrand Karoline Leavitt has ignited one of the most explosive controversies in women’s sports this year, unleashing a verbal grenade at WNBA superstar Brittney Griner during a live radio interview.
The remark — in which Leavitt referred to Griner as a “sh!t” after claiming to have “learned the truth” about her gender — instantly sent shockwaves through both the political and sports worlds.
Just hours later, the Women’s National Basketball Association stunned fans and players alike by announcing that, beginning next season, mandatory sex verification tests will be required for all players in the league.
League Commissioner Cathy Engelbert confirmed the move in a terse press statement:
“This decision is about fairness, transparency, and competitive integrity. We understand it will spark debate, but our priority is ensuring a level playing field.”
The announcement comes amid a growing national debate over gender identity in women’s sports, with several high-profile cases — including Griner’s — fueling intense online arguments. Supporters of the policy argue it’s necessary to preserve competitive balance, while critics slam it as discriminatory and invasive.
Social media erupted within minutes. The hashtag #WNBAUnderFire began trending, with thousands of posts calling for boycotts, protests, or — conversely — praising the league for taking a “stand.”
Brittney Griner has yet to issue a formal statement, but her representatives called Leavitt’s remarks “vile, baseless, and beneath the dignity of public discourse.”
Whether this decision will bring clarity or chaos remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the WNBA has just crossed into the most politically charged territory in its history — and the fallout could redefine the future of women’s professional basketball.
