Chicago Sky principal owner Michael Alter declined to answer whether Enes Kanter Freedom, who has been banned from attending games at Wintrust Arena, would be permitted to play there if he joins a WNBA team.
During an interview with OutKick, Alter was asked about the ban's application to Freedom if he were to play as an opposing player at the Sky's home venue. Freedom has stated his intention to declare for the WNBA Draft, asserting that the league's eligibility rules should not exclude him.
"Now, this ban extends to his attendance at games," OutKick asked. "If he is playing on a WNBA team next year and that team is scheduled to play the Sky, is he allowed to come and play the Sky?"
Alter did not provide a direct response, instead questioning the premise of the inquiry. "That’s a good one. I’m not gonna comment on that ridiculous question. Thank you. Why would you even ask that question? I mean, do you really care about the truth here, or do you just wanna have fun with this whole thing?"
The ban was issued after security ejected Freedom from a recent game between the Chicago Sky and the Indiana Fever. The organization cited that Freedom became a potential threat when he moved toward the court during an altercation with Sky guard Natasha Cloud.
Freedom, a veteran of 11 NBA seasons, has expressed his intent to enter the WNBA Draft. He has challenged the league's collective bargaining agreement, arguing that it lacks explicit definition regarding biological sex for eligibility. Despite reports that he may not be eligible for the draft, Freedom maintains he will seek a roster spot if the league does not alter its language on eligibility.
The WNBA has not officially confirmed Freedom's ineligibility, and he has stated he has not received any communication from the league regarding his draft status. Freedom has affirmed his commitment to pursuing a roster spot, saying, "I’m doing it."