Former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom was asked to leave the Indiana-Chicago WNBA game on Sunday night after an altercation with Sky guard Natasha Cloud in the third quarter. Kanter, wearing a black shirt with the words “WOMAN noun. adult human female,” was seated along the baseline when Cloud, following a score, approached him aggressively. Security and players intervened to separate the two.
Chicago coach Tyler Marsh assured Cloud that she was not a distraction to the team and emphasized her role in protecting and supporting others. Kanter engaged with security before leaving the court, encouraging the crowd as he exited the arena. Cloud later met with security but did not address the media, instead posting a supportive message for the transgender community.
The incident reignited debates about transgender women participating in the WNBA, with Layshia Clarendon, the league’s first openly transgender and non-binary player, retiring in 2024. The lack of specific language in the WNBA’s rules regarding gender identity has sparked controversy, with former NBA players Kanter and Royce White jokingly announcing their eligibility for the WNBA draft. Marsh emphasized the importance of focusing on basketball when attending games, highlighting the players’ dedication and talent.
The WNBA continues to navigate discussions surrounding transgender inclusion in sports, with players like Sophie Cunningham expressing concerns. Kanter’s actions outside the arena further fueled the ongoing debate, drawing attention to the complex intersection of sports and gender identity.