THIS JUST HAPPENED: Karoline Leavitt Calls Brittney Griner a ‘Sh*t’ Amid WNBA Gender Testing Controversy
In a moment that has sent shockwaves across both the sports and political landscapes, conservative commentator Karoline Leavitt has ignited a firestorm by publicly insulting WNBA star Brittney Griner. The harsh comment, in which Leavitt reportedly called Griner a “sh*t” after alluding to questions about her gender identity, came just hours after the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) announced it will begin implementing mandatory sex testing for all players starting next season.
The WNBA’s controversial policy change marks a dramatic and divisive shift in how the league approaches gender verification in the age of growing LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion. According to the league’s official statement, the new policy is aimed at “ensuring a fair and competitive environment” amid rising concerns over gender identity in professional women’s sports.
But many are accusing the WNBA of folding under political and social pressure, with critics labeling the move a “blatant attack on trans and gender-nonconforming athletes.” Supporters of the decision argue it’s necessary to preserve the integrity of women’s sports, especially as questions arise about the participation of trans women in professional leagues.
Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and longtime face of the WNBA, has often been at the center of unfounded rumors and speculation about her gender. Though she has never publicly identified as anything other than a cisgender woman, her height, deep voice, and powerful athleticism have made her a target of online trolls and fringe commentators for years.
Leavitt’s outburst, which went viral within hours, sparked immediate backlash. “The fact that she can speak about another woman like this is vile,” tweeted one WNBA fan. Others called for Leavitt to issue a public apology or even face de-platforming.
At the same time, far-right corners of the internet praised her for “telling the truth.” Some accused the mainstream media of covering up what they claim is “obvious deception” in women’s sports. The culture war surrounding gender in athletics has once again reached a boiling point.
Meanwhile, advocacy groups have slammed both Leavitt and the WNBA’s decision. The Human Rights Campaign issued a statement condemning the policy, warning that “forced sex testing is a gross violation of privacy and human dignity.” The ACLU also weighed in, noting that such policies often disproportionately affect Black women and women of color, who are more likely to be targeted for testing based on appearance or stereotypes.
Legal challenges are expected, and already, some civil rights attorneys have hinted that they may take the WNBA to court if players are subjected to “unconstitutional and discriminatory practices.” Some WNBA players, speaking anonymously, said they were “deeply uncomfortable” with the idea and feared it would set a dangerous precedent.
Griner herself has not yet commented on either the league’s decision or Leavitt’s attack. Her representatives said she is “focused on her game and her team” as the Phoenix Mercury battle for a playoff spot. However, many fans and fellow athletes have rushed to her defense online, expressing support and admiration for her strength amid relentless public scrutiny.
As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, the league now finds itself at the heart of an intensifying debate about gender, fairness, and human rights—one that could redefine the future of women’s sports.
