Former NBA player and college basketball standout Royce White has formally submitted his declaration to join the WNBA Draft. The official notice, signed on Monday, was sent to the WNBA League office. It includes White’s legal counsel, Matt Gaetz’s, signature, a former U.S. Congressman, confirming White’s eligibility as a transgender woman under the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Gaetz’s notice stated, “As of this declaration, Ms. White identifies as a transgender woman. In line with the 2026–2033 Collective Bargaining Agreement, Ms. White confirms her eligibility for the Draft.” Further, the notice requests confirmation of the league’s receipt of this declaration within ten business days and asks for a determination of White’s eligibility at the league’s earliest convenience.

White’s declaration addresses the significance of inclusion and rights, emphasizing the support received from Americans. In an exclusive interview, White declared his intent to join the WNBA Draft. He expressed the desire for the league to make a clear statement regarding the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports.

White, who played briefly in the NBA for the Sacramento Kings and had a prominent college career at Iowa State, plans to challenge the league legally if he goes undrafted. He intends to address discrimination issues in professional sports through potential legal avenues.

This announcement comes as White also pursues a political career. He is running for U.S. Senate after a recent primary loss in Minnesota.

Both White and Enes Kanter Freedom have brought the discussion of transgender athletes in women’s sports to the forefront. The WNBA is now at the center of this cultural conversation. Public rallies and protests have been sparked in response to the broader debate, especially following statements by players like Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham, advocating for the protection of women’s sports.