Royce White announces plans to enter 2027 WNBA Draft as transgender
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 7:47 PM
Last updated Aug 8, 2026
Former NBA player Royce White has revealed his intention to declare for the 2027 WNBA Draft, stating he identifies as transgender for the purpose of basketball. This announcement follows that of fellow ex-NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom, who also plans to enter the draft. White's decision comes amid renewed discussions regarding transgender athletes in women's sports, particularly sparked by WNBA star Sophie Cunningham's public criticism of trans participation. He has urged the WNBA to clarify their eligibility rules regarding transgender athletes. White indicated that he would pursue legal action if he faces discrimination during the draft process, as he argues he meets the criteria for eligibility. Freedom has expressed confidence in his standing within the existing guidelines.
- •Royce White announces WNBA Draft plans while identifying as transgender.
- •Enes Kanter Freedom also declares for the 2027 WNBA Draft.
- •Sophie Cunningham's comments reignite debate on trans athletes.
- •WNBA's policy on transgender eligibility remains undefined.
- •White threatens legal action if not drafted.
- 7:47 PMYahoo Sports — Sophie Cunningham spurs NBA dud to try WNBA draft as transgender player
- 7:28 PMYahoo Sports — Sophie Cunningham spurs Senate-hopeful NBA dud to try WNBA draft as transgender
"Royce White’s announcement is the second by a former NBA player in recent days since the WNBA star renewed the debate about transgender athletes in women’s sports
"Royce White’s announcement is the second by a former NBA player in recent days since the WNBA star renewed the debate about transgender athletes in women’s sports
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 8, 2026, 7:47 PMSophie Cunningham spurs NBA dud to try WNBA draft as transgender player
Royce White’s announcement is the second by a former NBA player in recent days since the WNBA star renewed the debate about transgender athletes in women’s sports
- Yahoo SportsAug 8, 2026, 7:28 PMSophie Cunningham spurs Senate-hopeful NBA dud to try WNBA draft as transgender
Royce White’s announcement is the second by a former NBA player in recent days since the WNBA star renewed the debate about transgender athletes in women’s sports
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