This week, transgender female basketball player Lexi Rodgers was hit with a pretty disappointing season when it was announced that she would be unable to compete in a semi-professional women’s basketball league in Australia.
Basketball Australia announced the decision on Tuesday determining that Lexi Rodgers is ineligible to compete in elite or sub-elite basketball in Australia, including for her team, the Kilsyth Cobras.
The decision obviously came as a disappointment to Rodgers.
“I sought a different outcome from Basketball Australia,” Rodgers said in a statement according to Fox News. “I participated fully and in good faith with the process and eligibility criteria. Consistent with the views expressed by so many, I firmly believe I have a place as an athlete in women’s basketball.
“Basketball is one of the great loves of my life. Like so many people who play every week across the country, the basketball court is where I feel safe, where I feel free, and where I feel I belong.
“The backing of the players, coaches, my club and grassroots members has been overwhelming. I am so grateful for their desire to have me as part of their community. Such support fills me with pride, but also sends an honest message of equality to those who are also seeking belonging within sport.”
Rodgers was no the only one upset about the ruling as the sports world blasted the decision by Australia Basketball on Twitter.
The comments are heartbreaking, especially given the gracious comments Lexi herself made on social media.
We have a long way to go… https://t.co/UhV5TpTGK0
— Mr EPIstemic (@DavidDun1) April 18, 2023
Keen to see Lexi prove the world wrong. <3 https://t.co/PYkPaH84RN
— Michael Scott (@scottm_21) April 18, 2023
https://twitter.com/TheFlyingBats/status/1648224790472462336?s=20
Another block for trans participation I'm sport. Considering it is meant to be case by case I wonder what there reasoning was… seems like a potential political response to all Bogart's noise. #TransRightsAreHumanRights #transRights https://t.co/rkDaW3EEQG
— JGB @ Narrative Curiosity 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧ she/her (@JGB_narrative) April 18, 2023
There is no reason to not have trans women play basketball other than transphobia. Lexi would be a wonderful addition to the sport. https://t.co/RbAuEQKXyS
— Missyjack #LGBTIQACAB (@missyjack) April 18, 2023
What a disappointing outcome #IStandWithLexi
— Amy Eliza (@eliza_rodda) April 19, 2023
Even though she is ineligible to play, Rodgers said she would continue to advocate for transgender athletes.
[Fox News]
