Former NBA player Royce White attended an Indiana Fever game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday night, wearing a blonde wig as part of his declared intention to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft.
White, who previously played college basketball at Iowa State and was a first-round NBA draft pick in 2012, announced his intention to declare for the WNBA draft earlier this month. His declaration was formally submitted to the WNBA league office by his attorney, former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz. White has stated that he identifies as a transgender woman for the purpose of professional basketball eligibility.
During his appearance at the arena, White stated, "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." He also indicated he was there to spectate and support the WNBA and the Fever.
White has made clear that his campaign is intended to prompt the WNBA to explicitly define its eligibility criteria regarding biological males competing in the league. The WNBA's current collective bargaining agreement states that "only players who are women are eligible to play in the WNBA," but it does not specify further definitions related to biological sex or gender identity.
White has also indicated that he would pursue legal action, including a discrimination lawsuit, if his entry into the draft is not permitted. His legal team has stated it has not yet received a formal determination from the WNBA regarding his eligibility. Gaetz has posted on social media, urging the WNBA to preserve all records in anticipation of potential litigation.
White's appearance follows a similar public declaration by former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom, who was reportedly deemed ineligible for the WNBA draft. Reports suggest that both White and Freedom's declarations are being characterized by league sources as publicity stunts. White was selected by the Houston Rockets in the 2012 NBA Draft and played three NBA games for the Sacramento Kings in 2014.