Former National Basketball Association player Royce White announced that he intends to enter the 2027 Women's National Basketball Association Draft after identifying as a woman for basketball purposes. The 35-year-old American player appeared on Fox to announce his decision. He follows former player Enes Kanter, who also submitted an application for the 2027 WNBA Draft.
White was selected 16th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets and had a brief stint with the Sacramento Kings in 2014. During his television appearance, White spoke in an aggressive and sarcastic manner, saying he identifies as a transgender woman for professional basketball purposes. He stated that he believes he would be unstoppable on the court but emphasized that the team comes first for him.
White described himself as a pass-first player who does the small things needed on the court. He noted that he led his team in all five major statistical categories while playing at Iowa State University, adding that he will do whatever the coach and his teammates need. He also stated that he could take legal action if he is denied the opportunity to play in the league.
Locker Room Access and League Rules
The 6-foot-8 athlete called on the WNBA to clearly state its position regarding who is permitted to play in the league, using blunt language to describe biological men attempting to join the women's championship. When asked about locker room access, White said he would naturally use the women's locker room because he does not want to face discrimination. The actions by both Kanter and White come amid an ongoing public debate surrounding transgender athletes in women's sports.
