Former NBA players JR Smith and Stephen Jackson have publicly criticized WNBA guard Gabby Williams after she expressed support for the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s professional basketball. During an interview, Williams stated she would have no reservations about playing alongside or competing against a transgender athlete, a position that drew sharp rebukes from the retired NBA stars.
The controversy intensified after Complex Sports posted Williams’ comments on Instagram on Friday. In the comments section, Smith and Jackson voiced their disapproval, with Jackson labeling the sentiment the “dumbest comment” and Smith questioning, “So if I’m trans, I can play in the W?” The debate over transgender participation in women’s sports has gained significant national attention, particularly following remarks made by Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham in an ESPN feature
In response to the backlash, Williams shared a post on her Instagram story from activist Leanna Carr, who expressed support for the Valkyries star’s perspective. Carr added her own commentary to the discourse after sharing the post featuring Williams’ original statements regarding the league’s inclusivity.
On the court, Williams has been a standout performer for the Golden State Valkyries since joining the team in April following her tenure with the Seattle Storm. As the Valkyries’ leading scorer this season, she is currently averaging 14.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting at a 41.8% clip.
Transgender athletes’ inclusion in women’s sports became a national debate following Sophie Cunningham’s comments in a July 21 ESPN feature.
