Royce White Makes Statement at WNBA Game
Former NBA player Royce White took his campaign for the WNBA Draft to the courts on Friday night. This was just days after Enes Kanter Freedom was ejected from a game, bringing further attention to the topic. Both White and Freedom have stated their intentions to enter the WNBA Draft as male players.
At the Indiana Fever’s game against the Connecticut Sun held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, White was spotted wearing a long blonde wig, a detail that was captured in various photos and videos.
He was seen inside the arena during the Fever’s game preparation and received a warm reception from fans, with many stopping to shake his hand and take pictures alongside him.
When asked about his presence at the game, White quipped, “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.”
The situation surrounding Freedom’s ejection had gained national focus, especially after he was banned from future games with the Sky.
Regarding any potential excitement during his appearance, White said, “I’m just here to spectate. I’m just here to support the WNBA and support the Fever.”
When contemplating the reception he might receive from Fever fans that night, White seemed indifferent: “Who cares? It’s life, you get one life to live. You’re born, you breathe, you stop breathing, hopefully you give all glory to God … Who cares what the reaction is?”
This public appearance was part of a broader campaign White had initiated earlier in the month. He had previously declared his intention to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft.
Through a letter sent by his attorney, former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz, White formally declared for the draft, identifying as a transgender woman and claiming eligibility per the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
The CBA stipulates that “only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA,” yet it lacks a clear definition concerning biological sex or gender identity.
White aims to use his declaration to push the WNBA to clarify whether biological males are permitted to participate in the league.
He has previously made statements highlighting his identity: “I’m transgender. I’m a woman. I identify as sometimes identifying as a woman for the purpose of basketball, professional basketball, so I’ll be declaring for the WNBA draft in 2027 as well.”
Additionally, White has indicated he may pursue a discrimination lawsuit if he is not allowed to compete.
Reports have surfaced suggesting that both he and Freedom may not qualify for the draft, with a league source describing their announcements as “publicity stunts.” However, White’s legal team claims they have yet to receive a formal determination from the WNBA.
Gaetz has advised that the WNBA should maintain all records in anticipation of potential litigation.
White was drafted by the Houston Rockets as the 16th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft after his collegiate success at Iowa State but appeared in only three NBA games, all with the Sacramento Kings in 2014.
