Enes Kanter Freedom opens up on confrontation with Natasha Cloud that led to ejection, WNBA pursuit

Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom recounted a confrontational incident with WNBA guard Natasha Cloud during a game against the Indiana Fever. Cloud allegedly made a vulgar remark and cursed repeatedly before Freedom was ejected. Freedom, who was celebrating a three-pointer by teammate Sophie Cunningham, stated that Cloud approached him after the shot, saying, ‘She’s not gonna sleep with you.’ Freedom responded that he was not interested in Cunningham and defended women’s rights, leading to further confrontation. Cloud then used profanity in front of young fans, shocking Freedom, who noted the presence of children and teenagers at the game. Freedom claimed the shirt he wore—‘WOMAN noun. adult human female’—triggered Cloud’s reaction. Security escorted Freedom off the court without explanation, despite his manager having notified the Chicago Sky in advance of his attendance. Freedom denied any connection between the incident and transgender issues, emphasizing that he was following the WNBA’s rules and defending women’s rights. He also expressed his intent to enter the 2027 WNBA Draft, despite facing online harassment. Freedom praised Cloud’s on-court performance but criticized her off-court behavior. The Sky coach defended Cloud, stating she protects the team and others. Freedom’s interaction with a young girl and her mother after the game was described as emotionally impactful. He dismissed the dispute as non-political, asserting it was about common sense and women’s rights. Freedom also mentioned his interest in the WNBA’s new salary structure, highlighting the financial incentive for players who identify as women. He has received death threats since announcing his draft plans and remains open to direct dialogue with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.