Security removed former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom from a Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever game at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois.
The incident highlights a breach of arena security and league protocol during a high-profile professional women's basketball game. It also brings attention to Kanter Freedom's unconventional attempt to enter the WNBA.
Kanter Freedom entered the court without authorization and stood on the painted touchlines during the performance of the national anthem. Security personnel ejected him from the venue for violating arena and league rules.
During the event, Kanter Freedom said he could be the new face of the league. He further declared himself a prospect for a future WNBA Draft, though reports on the specific year vary. Some sources state he declared for the 2026 draft [2], while others indicate he announced his bid for the 2027 draft [1].
While most reports focus on the national anthem incident, one report said Kanter Freedom was involved in a confrontation with a player before his removal. The game continued with the Chicago Sky trimming the Indiana Fever's lead to six points near the end of the third quarter [3].
Kanter Freedom is known as both a former professional basketball player and a political activist. This latest disruption at Wintrust Arena marks another instance of the athlete using sporting events as a platform for public attention.
“Security removed former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom from a Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever game”
The ejection of Enes Kanter Freedom underscores the strict security protocols governing WNBA venues, particularly during the national anthem. His claim to be a draft prospect—regardless of whether he targeted the 2026 or 2027 cycle—is a symbolic gesture rather than a viable athletic pursuit, as the WNBA maintains specific eligibility requirements regarding gender and professional experience.
