Chicago Sky Bans Enes Kanter Freedom After Altercation

Incident at Wintrust Arena

Chicago Sky team owner Michael Alter announced Enes Kanter Freedom is barred from Wintrust Arena. The ban followed an altercation with Sky player Natasha Cloud. Alter made these comments to beat writers.

Details of the Altercation

The incident occurred during the Sky’s game against the Indiana Fever. It started in the third quarter after Cloud scored, leading to a timeout. Sitting near the basket, Freedom reacted and walked toward Cloud. Security intervened to separate the two. According to Alter, Freedom’s actions were seen as a threat by arena security, NBA security, and police.

“He has demonstrated to us, unequivocally, that he has the potential to be a threat,” Alter stated via ESPN.

Freedom’s Perspective

Freedom expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, claiming he was ejected without warning, despite following league rules. He criticized Cloud’s behavior as a violation of policy for berating a spectator.

Freedom provided his account: “Sophie Cunningham shot a three, and I put my hands up to celebrate. Natasha Cloud responded aggressively, and I stood up to assert I’m just here to protect women.” Freedom believed his shirt, defining what a woman is, may have triggered Cloud’s reaction.

Cloud’s Response

Natasha Cloud did not speak during the postgame media session but posted a supportive message for the transgender community, seemingly addressing Freedom’s stance.

“To every trans kid/person, You are apart of MY community & tribe. You belong. You’re loved. You’re seen. You’re perfect as you are. & you will always be protected by me,” Cloud wrote.

Future Plans for Freedom

Freedom, attending his first WNBA game, has expressed interest in joining the league. His presence at the arena was met with hostility from some fans. Despite the controversy, he plans to pursue entering the WNBA Draft.

Fox News’ Jackson Thompson and Ryan Gaydos contributed reporting.