Former NBA first-round pick Royce White says he plans to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft, stating that he now identifies as transgender for the purpose of pursuing a professional basketball career in the league.
White, who was selected 16th overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA Draft, made the announcement in comments to Fox News Digital. The 6-foot-8 former NBA forward said he believes he would be “unstoppable” in the WNBA and indicated he could consider legal action if he is not permitted to participate.
According to White, his decision is intended to challenge the WNBA to clarify its policies regarding transgender athlete eligibility. The league
“I’d like to know what the parameters are,” White told Fox News Digital.
White’s announcement comes after former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom similarly said he intends to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft, framing his decision as part of the broader public debate surrounding transgender participation in women’s sports.
The comments arrive as policies governing transgender athletes continue to generate discussion across professional and amateur sports. Various leagues and governing bodies have adopted differing eligibility standards, with many reviewing or revising their rules in recent years.
As of now, the WNBA has not publicly responded to White’s announcement. Whether he ultimately submits the paperwork necessary to enter the draft, and how the league would address such a declaration, remains to be seen.
The situation is likely to draw significant attention as the 2027 WNBA Draft approaches, particularly if the league is asked to clarify or revisit its current eligibility policies.
