Former NBA player Royce White announces intent to enter 2027 WNBA draft
Royce White, a former NBA first-round pick, said he will declare for the 2027 WNBA draft, stating he identifies as transgender and plans to challenge the league’s eligibility rules.
Former NBA first-round pick Royce White told Fox News Digital that he intends to enter the 2027 WNBA draft, saying he identifies as a transgender woman for the purpose of professional basketball. White said the league should issue a clear policy on the participation of individuals assigned male at birth in women’s basketball, adding that he will proceed with his declaration regardless of any statement.
White, who is also a candidate in Minnesota’s Republican primary for the U.S. Senate, indicated he would consider legal action if he is not drafted or signed, alleging potential discrimination. He referenced the WNBA’s 2026 collective bargaining agreement, which limits eligibility to “players who are women,” noting that the agreement does not define the term or address transgender eligibility.
The Women’s National Basketball Players Association responded by affirming its commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, while rejecting the use of the issue for political purposes. White expressed a preference for the Minnesota Lynx and coach Cheryl Reeve, and highlighted his physical stature and past collegiate achievements as potential advantages.
The WNBA has not yet clarified how it would evaluate a transgender applicant under the current collective bargaining language, and no formal draft entry has been submitted by White or former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom, who made a similar announcement earlier this week.