There's just one problem: A handbook for adults running the program tells them not to address the group as "girls."Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In organization runs Lean In Girls, a program backed by the NBA and WNBA.Its 2023 facilitator handbook tells adults to avoid addressing the group as "girls." (Bloomberg via Getty Images)Yes, Lean In Girls, which the NBA and WNBA say they're "proud to support," includes guidance for working with participants who may be exploring their gender identity.
Its facilitator handbook encourages children to share their pronouns and instructs adults to use gender-neutral language.WNBPA ISSUES STATEMENT EMBRACING DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION AMID TRANS ATHLETE DEBATE IN WOMEN'S SPORTSThe handbook also discusses "social power" and "active allyship," teaching facilitators how to help young participants recognize and challenge societal biases.So, how much of the curriculum did the NBA and WNBA review before deciding to support the program?The NBA's 2022-23 Social Impact Report stated that the WNBA had worked with Lean In for eight years, airing public service announcements during the playoffs to promote the value of girls and women in sports.Those early campaigns focused on gender equality and encouraging men to support women.By 2024, the partnership included Lean In Girls, a program designed specifically for children.That year, the leagues teamed up with WNBA star Aliyah Boston for a promotional campaign encouraging girls to reject stereotypes and embrace their "leadership superpowers."On April 20, 2026, the NBA published a video describing Lean In Girls as a "free, school-ready" program backed by both leagues.
Promotional ads for Lean In also air during WNBA broadcasts.The NBA and WNBA back Sheryl Sandberg's Lean In Girls, whose handbook tells adults not to call participants "girls" and covers gender identity.(Ethan Miller/Getty Images)The WNBA also teamed up with Flau'jae Johnson, with Lean In's website declaring that Johnson and the league w...