Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom was removed from the WNBA game between Indiana and Chicago on Sunday night after an altercation with Sky guard Natasha Cloud in the third quarter.
Kanter was sitting courtside wearing a black shirt with the words “WOMAN noun. adult human female.” The incident occurred when Cloud scored and then confronted Kanter, causing a commotion that led to security and players intervening.
Chicago forward Azura Stevens downplayed the incident, focusing on the game rather than the altercation. Cloud, concerned about being a distraction, met with team security post-game.
Kanter, escorted out, engaged with security and the crowd before leaving the arena. Cloud later posted a message on social media supporting the transgender community.
The WNBA has been at the center of debates regarding transgender women participating in the league. While the league’s policies mainly focus on women, there is no explicit mention of gender identity or birth sex in its rules.
Former NBA players, including Kanter, have jokingly expressed interest in joining the WNBA draft as transgender women. This has sparked controversy and discussions within the sports community.
Chicago coach Tyler Marsh emphasized focusing on basketball and respecting the league and its players, highlighting the importance of enjoying the game rather than creating distractions.
The ongoing debates and incidents surrounding gender inclusivity in sports continue to raise questions and discussions within the WNBA and broader sports community.
