Former NBA Star Royce White to Declare for 2027 WNBA Draft

Former NBA player Royce White plans to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft. White has announced he identifies as transgender with the intention to participate in professional women’s basketball. Enes Kanter Freedom, a former NBA player, also made a similar declaration recently.

White stated, “I’m transgender. I’m a woman. I identify as sometimes identifying as a woman for the purpose of basketball, professional basketball, so I’ll be declaring for the WNBA draft in 2027 as well.” He believes he would be a dominant figure in the WNBA, emphasizing team play and his diverse skill set, as demonstrated during his college career at Iowa State University.

I think I’d be unstoppable. But I’m a team-first guy. I’m a pass-first kind of player. I do the little things. I led my team in all five major stat categories at Iowa State University, so I do a little bit of everything. I’ll do whatever the coach needs me to do.

White challenged the WNBA to clarify its stance on male participation in women’s sports. He emphasized his demand for fair treatment and expressed his readiness to take legal action if he is not drafted. “I have to file a discrimination lawsuit, right? I mean, that’s, that’s ridiculous,” White said.

The WNBA’s eligibility criteria state only women can play in the league. However, the definition of “women” is not explicitly clarified regarding transgender or intersex athletes. The Women’s National Basketball Players Association expressed support for diversity and inclusion, while opposing the demonization of any group.

“We embrace justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion,” the union stated. “Hate, abuse, and demonization of any person or group of people, including transgender people, only fuel fear, division, and harm.”

White expressed interest in joining the Minnesota Lynx if given the opportunity. He mentioned his respect for women’s basketball, citing his sister and coach Nancy Lieberman as influential figures.

White questioned the specific criteria required for transgender athletes to play in the WNBA. “What exactly are the specifics? What criteria do I need to meet in order to be able to play? Is it just a wig? Do I have to cut my beard? Does my voice have to get a little bit lighter? Do I have to do this snip-snip?”