Julie Tétart, a 34-year-old center from Monaco, dominated France’s Ligue 2 during the 2025-2026 season with an average of 21.2 points and 20.2 rebounds per game while leading the league in successful free throws.
The player has been living as a woman for five years since transitioning in October 2021, but he has long expressed his desire to play in the WNBA. “It’s a childhood dream just like for any female basketball player,” Tétart said. “But unfortunately, it’s not possible.”
Tétart revealed that he would accept an invitation from a WNBA team but admitted his age and the high level of competition. “I won’t say no. But you have to be realistic: I’m old, and there are far better players than me!” he told a reporter.
Tétart’s performance last season was exceptional. He was the only player in the league to average over 20 points per game, finishing more than four points ahead of the second-highest scorer. His rebounding numbers were equally impressive, with an average of 20.2 rebounds per contest—nearly double that of the next highest rebounder.
These achievements came despite Tétart ranking 19th in minutes played per game.
The discussion around Tétart’s potential entry into the WNBA has reignited debates within the league about gender inclusion. After Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham sparked controversy by stating girls should not compete with boys, backlash quickly followed from WNBA officials and fans.
WNBA personnel have struggled to reconcile their stance on gender inclusion with broader progressive values. Golden State Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase compared the issue to being criticized for her ethnicity, while Fever head coach Stephanie White stated she is “not educated enough from a scientific standpoint” to determine whether men should be allowed in the league.
White added: “I don’t ever believe that exclusion is an answer.”
Tétart, who stands between 6’2” and 6’3”, hinted at political barriers preventing his participation in the U.S. “The league, yes,” he said with a smile. “The country, no.” When pressed further on the matter, Tétart simply replied: “I won’t say no.”
