Former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom was thrown out of the Indiana-Chicago WNBA game on Sunday night following a confrontation with Sky guard Natasha Cloud in the third quarter. Kanter was seated near the baseline wearing a black shirt with the message “WOMAN noun. adult human female.”
After Cloud made a score with 1:22 remaining in the third quarter, a timeout was called by the Fever. Cloud then engaged in a chest bump with teammate Aicha Coulibaly before approaching Kanter. Cloud, 34, began shouting and pointing at Kanter, also 34, as she advanced towards him. Security and several Sky players intervened as Kanter stood with his arms outstretched and took a step onto the court.
Chicago forward Azura Stevens commented on the incident, stating that it was a fan-related issue that security managed, and the team’s focus was on the game. Chicago coach Tyler Marsh reassured Cloud that she was not a distraction to the team, acknowledging her role in protecting and supporting the team and those in need.
Kanter was escorted from the court area while addressing his concerns to security. He gestured to the crowd and encouraged a response as he exited towards the front lobby. Following a discussion with police officers, he left Wintrust Arena.
Cloud met with team and league security post-game but did not speak to the media. Instead, she posted a message on Threads addressed “to every trans kid/person,” affirming their belonging, love, visibility, and protection within her community.
The WNBA has been a focal point of discussions regarding transgender women participating in the league. While the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement specifies it is for women, it lacks specific language on gender identity or sex assigned at birth. Former NBA players Enes Kanter and Royce White have humorously declared themselves eligible for the WNBA draft in support of Sophie Cunningham’s stance against transgender women in sports.
Chicago coach Marsh emphasized the importance of enjoying basketball when attending games and respecting the players. He emphasized that players deserve a supportive environment and recognition for their efforts on the court.
The incident involving Kanter and Cloud has sparked debates within the sports community and highlights ongoing discussions regarding transgender inclusion in professional sports, particularly in the WNBA.