Former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom was removed from the WNBA game between Indiana and Chicago on Sunday night after an encounter with Sky guard Natasha Cloud during the third quarter.
Kanter Freedom, seated along the baseline, wore a black shirt with the message “WOMAN noun. adult human female.” The interruption occurred when Cloud scored, prompting a timeout by the Fever, followed by a confrontation between Cloud and Kanter Freedom.
As Cloud approached Kanter Freedom, tensions escalated with Cloud yelling and pointing at him. Security and Sky players intervened as Kanter Freedom stood up and gestured while being escorted off the court.
Chicago’s Azura Stevens mentioned a fan incident, focusing on the game after the Sky’s loss. Chicago coach Tyler Marsh assured Cloud that she was not a distraction to the team, emphasizing their support for her.
After the incident, Kanter Freedom engaged with security and the crowd before leaving the arena with police officers. Cloud had discussions with team and league security post-game but did not speak with the media, instead posting a supportive message for transgender individuals on Threads.
The WNBA has been at the center of discussions regarding transgender women participating in the league. Layshia Clarendon, the WNBA’s first openly transgender player, retired in 2024. Despite the league’s guidelines on gender, there is ongoing debate about the inclusion of transgender athletes.
Sophie Cunningham expressed opposition to transgender individuals in women’s sports, a sentiment echoed by Kanter Freedom and Royce White, who jokingly announced WNBA draft eligibility as transgender women. Kanter supported Cunningham in a pre-game rally.
Chicago’s Marsh emphasized the importance of enjoying basketball games without distractions, showing respect for the league and its players. The incident has drawn attention to broader cultural debates in the U.S.
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