Royce White’s WNBA Draft Campaign Raises Questions on Gender Eligibility

Former NBA player Royce White made headlines by attending a WNBA game with a surprising declaration. This follows Enes Kanter Freedom’s ejection from a game, adding him to the list of males declaring for the WNBA Draft.

White attended the Indiana Fever vs. Connecticut Sun game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, sporting a long blonde wig. He interacted positively with fans, who greeted him and took pictures. When questioned about his presence, White responded, “All hail Queen Roysha, the queen has arrived, it’s great to be here… I’m here because Black trans lesbians matter, and we’ve always mattered, we’ve always existed… I’m here to participate and scout some of the competition maybe as well.”

Enes Kanter Freedom’s ejection had become a major topic, and questions were raised about potential “fireworks” with White’s attendance. However, White clarified, “I’m just here to spectate. I’m just here to support the WNBA and support the Fever.”

White’s recent steps are part of a bigger campaign he began earlier, announcing his intention to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft. White, through his attorney, former Congressman Matt Gaetz, sent a letter to the WNBA, declaring his transgender identity for basketball purposes. White aims to challenge the league’s criteria on gender eligibility.

“The WNBA should preserve all records in anticipation of litigation,” Gaetz stated on social media.

The WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement specifies eligibility for players identifying as women but lacks clear definitions surrounding biological sex or gender identity. White believes his declaration will press the league to clarify whether biological males can participate.

The league has not formally responded to White and Freedom’s eligibility, but insiders are dismissing the declarations as “publicity stunts.” Regardless, White’s legal representation insists no official decision has come from the WNBA.

Selected 16th overall in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets, White’s professional basketball stint included only three games with the Sacramento Kings in 2014.