Former NBA player Royce White has expressed concern regarding Enes Kanter Freedom’s ejection from a WNBA game. He suggests it might signal the start of a strong response from the league.
White, who like Freedom has entered the 2027 WNBA Draft to challenge eligibility policies, spoke on ‘Don’t @ Me w/ Dan Dakich’ after the incident became widely viewed. It occurred during the Indiana Fever’s 113-90 victory over the Chicago Sky in Chicago.
During a third-quarter break, Chicago Sky guard Natasha Cloud and Freedom exchanged words. Freedom moved towards the court, prompting Cloud to approach. Security intervened and escorted Freedom out.
White discussed the matter with Dakich, predicting the WNBA would react strongly, possibly banning Freedom from events.
“They’re going to say that he instigated a conflict with a player, and there’s an immutable line between the spectators and the players,” White commented.
He speculated that Freedom’s situation might be treated similarly to other controversial incidents.
Freedom shared his perspective afterward, recounting how Sophie Cunningham’s three-pointer led him to celebrate, drawing Cloud’s ire.
Freedom explained to Fox News Digital’s Jackson Thompson, “Natasha started yelling and said, ‘She’s not gonna sleep with you.’ I responded, ‘I’m not trying to sleep with her. I’m just here to protect women and support her.’”
Freedom insisted his intentions were misunderstood and claimed Cloud’s use of intense language surprised him given the presence of young fans.
The confrontation occurs amid Freedom and White’s challenge to the WNBA’s eligibility criteria. The league’s collective bargaining agreement restricts participation to women, but lacks clear guidance for transgender athletes.
Freedom and White advocate for clearer standards and aim to address the league’s ambiguous policies.
Leave a Reply