Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom was met with a hostile reception from some fans as he arrived at the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky game on Sunday night in Chicago.
Kanter Freedom, who had a more than decade-long career in the NBA, recently announced his aspiration to be drafted into the WNBA, a move that has drawn significant attention.
The incident occurred as the WNBA navigates ongoing discussions regarding the participation of transgender athletes. Kanter Freedom arrived at Wintrust Arena to watch the game, which featured Caitlin Clark.
Outside the arena, Kanter Freedom was subjected to verbal abuse from several individuals. One fan reportedly used a derogatory slur and told him to leave Chicago, while another directed an expletive at him. A third fan displayed a middle finger gesture towards Kanter Freedom, who was accompanied by security personnel.
However, not all interactions were negative, as some female fans in attendance offered cheers and high-fives to the former Utah Jazz and New York Knicks player.
The confrontation takes place amid a backdrop of protests and counter-protests at recent WNBA games. These events follow comments made by Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham, who stated a desire to 'protect young girls' from 'biological men.'