Enes Kanter Freedom Claims WNBA Finals Ban, Cites Security Concerns
Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom alleges he was barred from courtside seats at the WNBA Finals Game 3 due to unspecified security concerns, according to his social media posts.
Enes Kanter Freedom, a former NBA player, claims he was prevented from sitting in his purchased seats at Game 3 of the WNBA Finals, sharing a video of a phone call with NBA security. Kanter stated on X, formerly Twitter, that he had been banned from his seats and that WNBA security had suggested he watch from a private luxury suite.
In the video, an NBA security representative informed Kanter that due to his expressed security concerns, and for the safety of fans and players, the WNBA and arena security had arranged a suite for him. Kanter reportedly declined the suite, stating he wished to sit in his purchased seat, and was told that only suites were available. The call ended with Kanter stating, "I guess they have to drag me."
State Farm Arena, the venue for Game 3, issued a statement confirming that Kanter Freedom had contacted federal, state, and local authorities, as well as the WNBA, the Atlanta Dream, and arena officials, to express concerns about his personal safety. The arena stated that following consultations, they directed Kanter to watch the game from a private luxury suite to address his security concerns and ensure a safe experience. The statement also noted that a state police officer had been assigned to Kanter at his request.
Kanter has been outspoken regarding WNBA policies, particularly concerning transgender athletes. Earlier in the season, he was ejected from a Chicago Sky game and banned from the team's arena following a physical confrontation on the court. The Daily Mail has reached out to the Atlanta Dream and the WNBA for comment.