Former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom was removed from a WNBA game between Indiana and Chicago on Sunday night following a heated exchange with Sky guard Natasha Cloud in the third quarter. Kanter, seated along the baseline, wore a black shirt with the words “WOMAN noun. adult human female.”
After a timeout was called by the Fever, Cloud scored and then engaged in a confrontation with Kanter, leading to a verbal altercation. The situation was quickly diffused by security and players from the Sky team, with no further escalation.
Chicago coach Tyler Marsh reassured Cloud that her actions did not distract the team and expressed support for her role in protecting the team. Kanter, escorted off the court, sought to engage the crowd before leaving the arena.
Cloud met with team and league security post-game but did not address the media directly. She later shared a message on social media expressing support for the transgender community.
The WNBA has been at the center of discussions regarding transgender women participating in the league. While there has never been a transgender woman player in the WNBA, the absence of specific regulations in the league’s collective bargaining agreement concerning gender identity has sparked debates.
Former NBA players, including Kanter, have jokingly announced their eligibility for the WNBA draft to draw attention to the issue. Kanter even participated in a rally supporting Sophie Cunningham, who voiced opposition to transgender individuals competing in women’s sports.
In response to the incident, Chicago coach Marsh emphasized the importance of respecting the game and the players, highlighting the need for a focus on basketball during games.
The ongoing debate surrounding the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports continues to divide opinions within the sports community.