An expert panel convened by Basketball Australia has blocked transgender athlete Lexi Rodgers from playing in the NBL1 competition after her application sparked heated debate.
But, Rodgers, who had trained with and applied to play for the Kilsyth Cobras, declared the decision was “not the end of my journey” in an Instagram post adamant she has “a place” in women’s basketball.
I have been humbled by the number of people who have publicly spoken in favour of including me as a player in the NBL1. Such support fills me with pride, but also sends an honest message of equality to those who are also seeking belonging within sport,” she wrote.
“I sought a different outcome from Basketball Australia. 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.
“I hope Basketball Australia understands that this is not the end of my journey as an athlete and that it must not miss future opportunities to demonstrate its values. I am sad about the potential message this decision sends to trans and gender diverse people everywhere. I hope that one day basketball’s governing body can replicate the inclusion and acceptance I have found on the court with my teammates.
“I hope to one day be playing elite women’s basketball in the future and will continue to work on making the sport I love a place for all.”
Rodgers, who transitioned during the Covid pandemic, applied to play for Kilsyth in NBL1 South competition which blindsided other teams who were concerned about whether a biological male should be allowed to compete against women.
A panel of experts was organised by BA, coming over the top Basketball Victoria, with chief medical officer Dr Peter Harcourt, triple-Olympian and board member Suzy Batkovic and Notre Dame University sports and exercise physician Associate Professor Diana Robinson called on to make the decision.
A statement on Tuesday confirmed Rogers would not be allowed to play.
“As the governing body, we acknowledge we’re still on a path of education and understanding,” the statement said.
“To aid us in developing our framework, Lexi will provide feedback and advice from her experiences.
“The balance of inclusivity, fairness and the competitive nature of sport will always be a complex area to navigate, and we thank those involved who have maintained integrity and respect throughout the process.
Basketball Australia director and former Olympian and panel member, Suzy Batkovic, said it was a “complex” decision to make.
“Firstly, on behalf of Basketball Australia I’d like to acknowledge and sincerely thank Lexi for her co-operation, understanding and patience throughout this process – it’s a complex space that continues to evolve,” Batkovic said.
“While Lexi is understandably disappointed with the outcome, I know she’ll continue to support her NBL1 South team throughout the season and be an active member of the basketball community.
“As we continue to develop our own framework for sub-elite and elite competitions, we understand the need to have a clear process and continual education within all layers of the sport so we can best support players, coaches, clubs, associations and the wider basketball community.
“I also want to make it clear because it’s important, that while this particular application was not approved based on criteria for elite competition, Basketball Australia encourages and promotes inclusivity at community level.”
