Royce White Announces Intent to Enter 2027 WNBA Draft, Identifies as Transgender

Former NBA player Royce White has announced his intention to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft, citing a new transgender identity. He follows his former NBA peer Enes Kanter Freedom, who revealed similar plans earlier. White stated, “I’m transgender. I’m a woman. I identify as sometimes identifying as a woman for purpose of basketball, professional basketball, so I’ll be declaring for the WNBA draft in 2027.”

White highlighted his versatile skills and team-first mentality, referencing his successful college basketball career at Iowa State University, where he excelled in multiple statistics. He expressed his belief in his potential impact on the WNBA, stating, “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.”

He further commented on the league’s current stance on transgender athletes. “I think the WNBA could come out and make a definitive statement about guys with a pair of balls playing in the Women’s Association,” White said. He plans to declare, regardless of league statements, emphasizing his desire for fair treatment.

Discussing potential legal actions, White suggested litigation if not drafted or signed, “I have to file a discrimination lawsuit, right? I mean, that’s, that’s ridiculous.” He is also a political figure, having participated in Minnesota’s Republican primary for the U.S. Senate and running against Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar in 2024.

Freedom, who analyzed WNBA eligibility criteria, argues that self-identification should suffice for participation. Current league policies only specify that “only players who are women are eligible.” The policy lacks detailed definitions regarding transgender or intersex participants.

The Women’s National Basketball Players Association supports diversity and inclusion without specifying eligibility requirements. Their statement calls for continued discussions and rejects using the issue for political purposes.

White expressed interest in joining the Minnesota Lynx, collaborating with coach Cheryl Reeve, who supports inclusion. “It’s got to be the Minnesota Lynx, and I hear the coach loves a good transgender,” White shared.

Drafted by the Houston Rockets in 2012, White stands at 6-foot-8 inches and has a history of strong performances. He expressed confidence in dominating in the WNBA due to his size and skill.

White added, “I’m 260 pounds, 265 pounds, 6-foot-8, can palm a basketball — can palm a men’s basketball probably as easily as any player in history.”

White plans to use the women’s locker room if accepted into a team. He respects women’s basketball, citing his sister’s involvement and past coaching by Nancy Lieberman.

Reflecting on emerging opportunities, White expressed willingness to team with Enes Kanter Freedom, hinting at the potential dominance they could bring together. “Maybe this is how it was supposed to all play out. Me and Enes Kanter running off about five, six WNBA championships.”

The WNBA has not clarified how it will evaluate transgender applicants under the current women’s eligibility requirement. White seeks to understand the criteria to ensure compliance and potential court defense.