Royce White reinstated, will join Rockets' D-League affiliate

Royce White. (Getty Images)

The Rockets and Royce White appear to have found some common ground.

The team and White released a joint statement late Saturday that says they have reached "an agreement that addresses the major issues" and that White is no longer suspended and has been reinstated effective immediately. White will report to the Rockets' D-League affiliate, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, on Feb. 11.

Here's the statement in full:

The Houston Rockets and Royce White have today reached an agreement that addresses the major issues that they have been discussing, provides a new start, and gives Royce the best opportunity for long term success as a Houston Rocket. This has been a learning process for both parties. The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association have approved the settlement. Royce is no longer suspended and is reinstated effective immediately. He will report to the Rio Grande Valley Vipers on February 11, 2013.

White and the Rockets have endured a most unusual saga this season as White has seemingly battled with the organization that drafted him over his mental health issues. One issue is needing a specialized travel plan because he has anxiety with air travel.

As a result of their constant clashes and White's refusal to report for D-League assignments, the Rockets suspended the rookie forward.

White was selected 16th overall in last year's draft, but concerns over his mental state had him red-flagged prior to the draft.

His rookie season has been a major challenge and he has yet to appear in a game for the Rockets. But the first step is getting back out on the floor, even if it's for the organization's D-League affiliate.

If all goes well there, there's no doubt White will soon find himself back with the Rockets and quite possibly contributing. His talent is undeniable. Overcoming personal issues has been the challenge, but it looks like he's finally on a path to doing that now.