Fact check: Has any WNBA team signed a openly transgender player?

1. Summary of the results

Yes, a WNBA team has signed an openly transgender player. Layshia Clarendon is confirmed as the WNBA's first openly transgender and nonbinary player across multiple sources ^{[1] [2] [3] [4]}. Clarendon was specifically signed by the Minnesota Lynx after being dropped by another team ^[2]. The sources consistently identify Clarendon as both transgender and nonbinary, making them a historic figure in professional women's basketball ^{[3] [5]}.

Clarendon has since retired from professional basketball, but their career represents a significant milestone for transgender representation in the WNBA ^{[3] [4]}.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question lacks important context about the broader LGBTQ+ landscape in the WNBA. The league has been particularly progressive in embracing LGBTQ+ rights and celebrating Pride Month, demonstrating institutional support for diversity and inclusion ^[6]. The WNBA has experienced significant growth in acceptance of its queer fanbase and has worked to normalize Black queerness within the league ^[5].

However, the analyses also reveal ongoing challenges faced by transgender athletes in sports more broadly, highlighting the importance of continued inclusion efforts ^[7]. The league's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion extends beyond just signing transgender players to creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ athletes and fans ^[6].

Missing from the discussion is any mention of potential opposition or controversy surrounding transgender athletes in women's sports, which has been a significant topic in other athletic contexts. The sources focus primarily on celebration and progress rather than addressing any debates or challenges that may have accompanied Clarendon's career.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question itself does not contain misinformation or obvious bias - it's a straightforward factual inquiry. However, the framing could be seen as potentially seeking to highlight transgender participation in women's sports, which is currently a politically charged topic.

The question's neutrality allows for factual response without inherent bias, though the context in which such questions are asked often relates to broader debates about transgender athletes in women's sports. The sources provided focus exclusively on positive representation and progress ^{[7] [5]}, which may not reflect the full spectrum of public discourse on this topic.