Former NBA player Royce White says he is declaring for next WNBA Draft after Enes Kanter announcement

Two former NBA first-round picks, Royce White and Enes Kanter Freedom, have announced their declarations for the 2027 WNBA Draft. Royce White, a former NBA forward, informed Fox that he is a woman and is transgender. White further stated that his wig is in the mail. Enes Kanter Freedom, a former Knicks center, also declared for the 2027 draft as a transgender athlete. The moves are described as part of a process of self-declaration, with one report indicating that another ex-NBA player has threatened legal action if they are not permitted to play in the league. Coverage of these declarations is widespread across multiple outlets including Yahoo Sports, Forbes, Fox News, and The Hill.

PennLive.com emphasizes that both individuals were first-round picks in the NBA. BasketNews.com reports that the WNBPA has fired back at a former top three NBA pick following the stunning announcements. Additionally, Yahoo Sports reports that Piers Morgan has issued a major challenge to the WNBA in response to the declaration by Enes Kanter Freedom. The reports highlight a significant amount of social media activity and public friction surrounding the events. The timing of these declarations coincides with a heated debate regarding transgender athletes, specifically citing drama involving Sophie Cunningham. The WNBPA has responded to this climate by denouncing the demonization of various groups and stating that the union will not be used as political pawns.

Other figures have entered the fray, including Bruce Pearl, who received backlash from fans who claimed sport is not in danger from anyone except people like Pearl. The situation is presented as a targeted effort to send a message amid existing cultural and athletic disputes. Future developments will likely center on the legal and regulatory responses to these declarations. One former player has already threatened legal action regarding their ability to play in the WNBA. Observers will be watching for the WNBA's official stance on the eligibility of these former NBA players for the 2027 draft. The ongoing conflict between the WNBPA and critics, as well as the potential for further legal challenges regarding the status of transgender athletes in professional sports, remains a primary point of focus for reporters from Yahoo Sports and other news organizations.