Former U.S. House of Representatives member from Florida, Matt Gaetz, is now offering legal counsel to Royce White, a former NBA player. White has formally entered his name for consideration in the 2027 WNBA Draft, submitting a letter through Gaetz and his firm, Gaetz Law, to the WNBA league office.
Gaetz announced through Fox News Digital, “Gaetz Law is currently providing legal counsel to Royce White. Royce White changed how the NBA thinks about player mental health. White is now an inspirational voice for Black transgender lesbians aspiring to play in the WNBA.”
Royce White Declares for WNBA Draft
In Gaetz’s drafted notice of White’s draft declaration, it is stated that “As of the signing of the attached declaration, Ms. White identifies as a transgender woman. Consistent with Article XIII, Section 1(a) of the 2026–2033 Collective Bargaining Agreement between the WNBA and the WNBPA, Ms. White affirms her eligibility to be considered for selection on that basis.”
Initially, President Donald Trump considered Gaetz for the position of Attorney General following his election win in November 2024. Gaetz resigned from Congress for the role but later withdrew his nomination due to scrutiny over past allegations which hampered his Senate confirmation chances. He had faced a House Ethics Committee investigation related to allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, which he denied, citing them as false and unverified.
Gaetz is now supporting White’s attempt to join the WNBA. White has stated in an interview with Fox News Digital that he would consider legal action if he is not drafted or signed to a team due to perceived discrimination. He expressed his readiness to file a lawsuit if necessary, stating, “We’re gonna have to have a huge legal battle about discrimination if I can’t play.”
White urged the league to clearly state its position on males playing in women’s sports, calling for “a definitive statement about guys with a pair of balls playing in the Women’s Association.” Despite this challenge, White declared his intention to proceed regardless, asserting his desire for fair treatment as an athlete.
WNBA’s criteria for gender eligibility have faced examination recently, as it does not specify that only athletes who are biologically female may compete. At the time of his announcement, White was also running for a U.S. Senate seat, although he lost his primary bid on August 11 to Michele Tafoya and was previously defeated by Democratic incumbent Senator Amy Klobuchar in the 2024 general election.
The coverage by sports reporter Jackson Thompson has shed light on the intersection of political and cultural issues in sports. His investigative work has been referenced in federal government actions regarding Title IX enforcement and by several media outlets such as The New York Times and ESPN.com.