THIS JUST HAPPENED: Karoline Leavitt Calls Brittney Griner a ‘Shit’ After Discovering the Truth About Her Gender – WNBA Announces Mandatory Sex Testing
The world of women’s basketball was rocked this week by a shocking series of events involving outspoken political commentator Karoline Leavitt, WNBA superstar Brittney Griner, and the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) itself. In what has become one of the most controversial headlines of the year, Leavitt publicly insulted Griner, calling her a “shit” after claiming she had “discovered the truth” about Griner’s gender. The backlash was swift, and the story only intensified as the WNBA announced it would begin implementing mandatory sex testing for all players starting next season.
The incident began on social media, where Leavitt, a former congressional candidate and frequent critic of progressive policies, posted a series of cryptic messages questioning Griner’s gender identity. “When the truth comes out, people will finally see what’s been hidden from them,” Leavitt wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Hours later, she escalated the situation by replying to a fan’s comment, calling Griner “a shit” and alleging that the WNBA had “been lying to fans for years.”
Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the league’s most recognizable players, has long been a target of criticism from certain corners of the media due to her height, deep voice, and commanding physical presence on the court. However, there has never been any credible evidence to suggest that she is not a cisgender woman.
The WNBA’s announcement that it would begin mandatory sex testing has only fueled the fire. In an official press release, league commissioner Cathy Engelbert stated, “As a professional sports organization, we are committed to maintaining the integrity of women’s basketball. Starting next season, all WNBA players will undergo standardized sex verification procedures. This is not a decision we have made lightly, but one we believe is necessary for fairness in competition.”
The league did not directly address Leavitt’s comments or Griner’s situation, but many observers have drawn a direct line between the controversy and the new policy. Critics argue that the move is reactionary and discriminatory, while supporters claim it is an important step toward preserving fairness in women’s sports.
Leavitt doubled down on her remarks following the WNBA’s announcement. “I will not apologize,” she wrote on X. “Women’s sports are under attack by those who think biological facts can be erased. I’m glad the WNBA is finally taking action, even though they’ve allowed this charade to continue for years.”
Her comments have been widely condemned by players, fans, and advocacy groups. WNBA legend Sue Bird called Leavitt’s remarks “vile and harmful” in an interview with ESPN. “Brittney Griner has given so much to the sport, and for someone to reduce her to an insult is disgusting. These kinds of comments only hurt the women’s game and alienate fans.”
The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) also released a statement denouncing the WNBA’s new policy. “Mandatory sex testing is a deeply invasive and discriminatory practice that targets women based on their appearance and gender expression,” the HRC wrote. “This decision sends the wrong message at a time when transgender and gender-nonconforming athletes are already facing unprecedented attacks.”
Brittney Griner herself has remained largely silent on the issue. In a brief statement released by her agent, she said, “I’m focused on my team, my game, and continuing to represent the WNBA with pride. I will not be distracted by people who seek to tear others down.”
The debate has quickly spilled beyond the sports world, with politicians and media outlets weighing in on both sides. Conservative commentators have praised the WNBA’s decision, framing it as a victory for “protecting women’s sports,” while progressive voices have blasted it as an infringement on players’ privacy and dignity.
Legal experts warn that the league’s new policy could face significant challenges in court. “Mandatory sex testing raises serious constitutional and civil rights questions,” said Erin Matthews, a sports law attorney. “Depending on how the tests are conducted and who they target, the WNBA could be opening itself up to lawsuits from players who feel they are being discriminated against or humiliated.”
Meanwhile, players across the league are grappling with what the policy will mean for their futures. Some, speaking anonymously, have expressed fear that athletes who don’t fit traditional gender norms could be unfairly singled out or publicly shamed.
The controversy has also ignited broader conversations about gender identity, inclusivity, and fairness in women’s sports. Advocates for transgender athletes argue that such policies reinforce harmful stereotypes and could drive athletes out of the sport altogether. Opponents claim that the integrity of women’s competition must be protected and that sex verification is a necessary safeguard.
As the WNBA prepares to implement its new policy, the league faces an uphill battle to regain the trust of players and fans. The decision will undoubtedly shape the future of women’s basketball and may set a precedent for other professional leagues grappling with similar debates.
For now, Brittney Griner continues to take the high road, but the shadow cast by Karoline Leavitt’s remarks and the WNBA’s controversial new rule shows no sign of fading. The coming months will determine whether the league can navigate the intersection of fairness, privacy, and inclusivity—or whether it will face a storm even greater than the one that began with a single insult.
