Former U.S. House member Matt Gaetz is advising ex-NBA player Royce White in White’s attempt to join the WNBA. White announced his entry for the 2027 WNBA Draft on Monday through a letter from Gaetz and his firm, sent to the WNBA league office.
Gaetz stated, “Royce White, who reshaped NBA views on player mental health, is now a motivational figure for Black transgender lesbians aspiring to play in the WNBA.” This message was conveyed to Fox News Digital.
White’s draft declaration, penned by Gaetz, expresses that White identifies as a transgender woman. According to the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement, she affirms her eligibility for selection based on her gender identity.
Gaetz was briefly considered for the role of Attorney General by then-President Donald Trump after Trump’s 2024 election victory. Gaetz resigned from Congress to accept the nomination but withdrew due to significant bipartisan scrutiny and controversy. Challenges included an ongoing House Ethics Committee investigation and previous federal investigations, which Gaetz denied and labeled as politically motivated.
White, on his pursuit of joining the WNBA, mentioned potential legal action if he remains undrafted. He stated, “I will have to file a discrimination lawsuit if not drafted. This is a large legal issue.” He urged the WNBA to clearly state its stance on males playing in women’s sports.
White said, “The WNBA could clarify their position on biological males competing in the Women’s Association.” He added, “I declare my intent to play and do not wish to face discrimination. As a potential U.S. Senator who identifies as a transgender woman at times, I seek fair treatment.”
The WNBA’s gender eligibility policies have been under examination, as they do not restrict participation to biologically female athletes only. White, who was running for the U.S. Senate, recently lost his primary race to Michele Tafoya in Minnesota, following an earlier defeat to Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar in 2024.
Jackson Thompson is a sports reporter for Fox News Digital, focusing on crucial political and cultural sports issues with an investigative approach.
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