Former U.S. Representative from Florida Matt Gaetz, who left Congress to pursue a brief stint as a Trump‑appointed Attorney General nominee, is now acting as legal counsel for former NBA forward Royce White. On Monday, Gaetz’s law firm, Gaetz Law, sent a formal declaration to the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) stating White’s intent to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft.
Legal declaration and eligibility claim
The declaration, drafted by Gaetz, notes that “Ms. White identifies as a transgender woman” and cites Article XIII, Section 1(a) of the 2026–2033 Collective Bargaining Agreement between the WNBA and the WNBPA as the basis for her eligibility. Gaetz told Fox News Digital that White’s presence “changes how the NBA thinks about player mental health” and that he is an “inspirational voice for Black trans lesbians everywhere who aspire to play in the WNBA.”
White’s background and recent political activity
Royce White, a former NBA player known for speaking out on mental‑health issues, previously ran for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota. He lost the Republican primary on Aug. 11, finishing behind Michele Tafoya, and earlier lost a general‑election bid in 2024 to incumbent Democrat Amy Klobuchar. Following those defeats, White turned his attention to professional basketball again, this time seeking a spot in the women’s league.
Potential legal battle
White warned that if he is not selected or signed by a WNBA team, he intends to file a discrimination lawsuit. He told Fox News Digital, “I have to file a discrimination lawsuit, right? … We’re going to have a huge legal battle about discrimination if I can’t play.” He added that the league could resolve the dispute by issuing a clear statement on the participation of “guys with a pair of balls” in the women’s association.
WNBA eligibility policy under scrutiny
The WNBA’s gender‑eligibility criteria have recently attracted attention because the collective‑bargaining agreement does not explicitly require athletes to be biologically female. White’s declaration therefore raises questions about how the league will interpret its own rules and whether additional policy guidance will be issued.
Gaetz’s political background
Matt Gaetz was tapped by former President Donald Trump in November 2024 to serve as Attorney General, prompting his resignation from the House of Representatives. He withdrew his nomination on Nov. 21, 2024, after bipartisan scrutiny over past allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use—claims he has consistently denied and for which he has never been charged.
What’s next?
The WNBA has not yet responded to Gaetz Law’s declaration. As the league reviews White’s eligibility, both the sports community and legal observers will be watching for any official statement that could set a precedent for future cases involving gender identity and professional athletics.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
