Fansided

Houston Rockets’ Royce White Makes D-league Debut (Video)

By Joshua Santos

Oct 17, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Royce White (30) runs up court against the Memphis Grizzlies during the fourth quarter at the Toyota Center. The Rockets won 109-102. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets forward Royce White (30) runs up court against the Memphis Grizzlies during the fourth quarter at the Toyota Center. The Rockets won 109-102. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

Royce White finally got back on the court. As reported earlier, White said he’ll make his debut on Tuesday as a member of the Rio Grande Vipers in a game against the Maine Red Claws.

According to Chris Duncan of the Associated Press, White, came off the bench, scoring seven points and eight rebounds along with four assists.

"“It was tough not being able to play, but it was necessary,” White said. “I feel like I’ve been right on the verge of coming back the whole time. I’ve kind of been just waiting right on the edge of my seat to come back. I’m not really nervous or anything. I’m just ready to get back out there.”"

White, the 16th overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft, refused orders to join the d-league after concerns of his anxiety disorder were not dealt with in the appropriate manner, according to White. White refused the D-league assignment in Dec. and was suspended on Jan. 6. His suspension however was lifted 20 days later on Jan. 26.

"“I think it’s all been real positive,” White said. “I feel blessed and honored to be part of what has taken place the last two months despite how tumultuous it might have seemed, it was a very progressive kind of thing and it needed to be done.”"

The Vipers take on the Texas Legends in Frisco, Dallas and will take a plane. White however, will take arrive to the arena in a customized bus.

"“I appreciate the Rockets and the NBA being patient with such a new topic like mental health,” he said. “Now, I’m moving forward and this isn’t the end or the beginning. It’s just another piece and we’ll just try to do the best we can with it.”"

Home/NBA