Ex-NBA Player Royce White Plans to Pursue WNBA, Claims To Be Transgender

Royce White Says He’s Coming for the WNBA Draft

Former NBA first-round pick Royce White is making headlines after announcing plans to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft, saying he now identifies as transgender for the purpose of pursuing a professional basketball career in the league.

White, who stands 6-foot-8 and was selected by the Houston Rockets in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft, says his move is designed to challenge the WNBA over its eligibility policies surrounding transgender athletes.

Speaking to Fox News Digital, White said he believes he would be “unstoppable” if given the opportunity to compete in the WNBA.

White also suggested he could explore legal action if he is denied the opportunity to enter the league, arguing that he wants the WNBA to clearly explain its eligibility requirements.

“I’d like to know what the parameters are,” White said.

His announcement comes amid an ongoing national debate over transgender athletes competing in women’s sports and follows former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom, who has also announced plans to declare for the WNBA Draft.

White’s proposed entry into the WNBA would create an unusual situation for professional basketball, given his size and previous experience playing in the NBA.

For now, White’s announcement raises a much bigger question: What exactly are the WNBA’s eligibility rules, and would White meet them if he formally declares for the 2027 draft?

The situation is expected to generate plenty of discussion as the 2027 WNBA Draft approaches.