Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom was ejected from a Chicago Sky game and later banned from future games at Wintrust Arena following a courtside altercation with player Natasha Cloud. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has drawn significant attention and viewership, with the game averaging 3.31 million viewers across NBC and Peacock, becoming the most-watched WNBA regular-season game in decades.
The confrontation began in the third quarter when Cloud, after scoring, approached Freedom, who was seated courtside. According to Freedom, Cloud initiated the exchange with profanity and accusations, while the Chicago Sky organization stated Freedom became a potential threat when he opened his arms and moved toward the playing surface. Security intervened, leading to Freedom's ejection.
The Chicago Sky organization informed Freedom's manager of their attendance shortly before the game. Sky principal owner Michael Alter told OutKick that the notification was perceived as a warning of impending trouble. Despite this, Freedom was allowed into the arena, though arena staff were instructed to ignore him.
Freedom, who became a U.S. citizen in 2021 and legally changed his name, has built a public identity advocating for free speech, religious freedom, and human rights, often criticizing authoritarian regimes and corporations with ties to them. His activism has previously included protests against China's treatment of Uyghur Muslims and Tibetans.
Cloud, a WNBA player since 2015, has a history of activism focused on racial justice, police accountability, gun control, voting access, and LGBTQ+ rights. The two previously clashed online in July 2023 when Cloud criticized the United States, and Freedom responded by invoking Brittney Griner's detention in Russia.
Following the ejection, the Sky announced Freedom was banned from future games unless he could demonstrate an understanding of the rules and a commitment to not posing a threat. Freedom has since sent a letter to WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert requesting an explanation for his ejection, a review of Cloud's conduct, and preservation of relevant video and security reports. He also questioned whether his views on transgender participation in women's sports or his stated effort to enter the 2027 WNBA draft influenced the decision. Freedom has also stated his legal team will be taking action against the Chicago Sky and Michael Alter.