Royce White in action for the Houston Rockets. Mandatory Credit: USA Today
Mandatory Credit: USA Today
The WNBA has recently found itself in a relatively tricky position following former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom’s decision to declare for the WNBA Draft. Now, with another ex-NBA player, Royce White, doing the same, matters seem to be escalating.
There have been many ongoing conversations concerning the acceptance of trans-identifying players in the WNBA. Many of these arose from French trans player Julie Tétart, who recently admitted to being open to a WNBA move if the opportunity presented itself. However, individuals like Freedom and Royce White appear to have taken matters in a completely different direction.
During a recent interview with Fox News, Royce White opened up about his decision to declare for the WNBA Draft, firmly identifying as a transgender woman and explaining why he deserves an opportunity to play. White shared:
“Right now, I’m just having a blast in my feminine era. I never thought that I was a woman. You know, I’ve always trusted the science, and I thought I was a man my entire life, but, you know, after further review and a strong look at my personal preferences, it would appear that I am indeed sometimes identifying as a transgender woman.”
“I think it’s only fair I get a chance to play with some of my queens here in the twilight of my career, my athletic prime.”
White’s statement clearly hints at a “farcical” approach toward the WNBA and the organization’s ability to deal with such situations, given how the league has drawn scrutiny over its inability to address the eligibility of athletes who identify as transgender individuals.
“It’s just astounding that the WNBA can’t define the W in the name,” White continued. “And I think we’re going through a very necessary conversation about who’s eligible to play in some of these professional sports leagues on both sides of the gender spectrum.”
After a fairly pointed jab at the league, Royce White returned to the original narrative about being eligible to play and added:
“My goal is to help elevate the WNBA. I think the ticket prices and the attendance will soar. I think the audience, the live audience, will increase. And I think ultimately it’s good for the game. It’s going to help evolve the game.”
“Who would argue that a player like myself or an Enes Kanter or, in the future, maybe even a LeBron James after he expires in the NBA? Maybe he wakes up one day and realizes he’s a woman as well. Who could argue that that wouldn’t make the women’s game better?”
Needless to say, White’s remark left the Fox News correspondent at a loss for words. Aside from himself and Freedom, White hinted that their eligibility for the draft could be an opportunity for other NBA players to join the WNBA to continue their professional careers, even opening the door for someone like LeBron James.
For the most part, Royce White appears to be taking advantage of the current confusion. Unfortunately, the WNBA has come up short in addressing these issues, effectively drawing more unwanted attention toward itself.
On a more interesting note, it appears that this take on the transgender debate is part of Royce White’s attempt to run for office in the state of Minnesota. Although the state’s Senate primary will take place on August 11, the general election itself will be on November 3. Until then, White will likely push this narrative to gain more traction, which also involves purchasing a wig to suit the new identity.