League: WNBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Transactions

Royce White declares for WNBA draft amid controversy over transgender athletes

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 4:06 PM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Royce White declares for WNBA draft amid controversy over transgender athletes

Summary

Royce White announced his declaration for the 2027 WNBA Draft, stating he identifies as a woman. This move follows Sophie Cunningham's remarks against transgender athletes in the league, which sparked widespread backlash. Influencers and community members criticized White’s declaration as attention-seeking, while others suggested it highlights deeper issues within the WNBA. Calls have emerged for the league to clarify its rules regarding eligibility for transgender players. This ongoing discussion comes as the WNBA community prepares for the upcoming draft.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Royce White claims to identify as a woman for basketball.
•Sophie Cunningham's previous comments on transgender athletes fueled the backlash.
•Influencers and WNBA community members express strong opposition to White's declaration.
•Discussion about defining WNBA rules on transgender participation may ensue.
•White's declaration adds to a series of similar moves from former NBA players.

Latest Updates

4:06 PMYahoo Sports — ‘This Is 100% Sophie Cunningham’s Fault’ – Royce White Sparks Huge Outrage By Declaring For WNBA Draft Amid Trans-Athlete Debate

What they're saying

"
There’s a loophole sitting right in the middle of the WNBA’s rulebook, and it’s currently being kicked wide open. Nowhere in writing does the league explicitly state that a “transgender” person cannot suit up and play.
— Yahoo Sports

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