Natasha Cloud refuses to address Enes Kanter Freedom by name in first comments on ejection incident
Summary
Chicago Sky guard Natasha Cloud refused to address Enes Kanter Freedom by name Saturday, calling him an "irrelevant person" in her first public comments since their courtside confrontation on August 23 led to Freedom's ejection and ban from Sky home games. Cloud stated she would focus on issues affecting women and children, specifically criticizing the inclusion of "trans human beings" and "drag queens" in that conversation. She praised Sky owner Michael Alter, GM Jeff Pagliocca, and coach Tyler Marsh for their handling of the incident, arguing that their actions provided necessary protection for the players. Cloud also attributed the WNBA's recent controversies to "men," stating that those who claim to protect women must include all women, such as Black women and trans women.
Key points
- Cloud called Freedom an "irrelevant person" and refused to discuss him further.
- She stated she would not discuss
- trans human beings
- drag queens
- or the "gay community" as issues facing women.
- Sky owner Michael Alter banned Freedom from Wintrust Arena unless he proves he will not pose a threat.
- Freedom was ejected late in the third quarter of the Sky's loss to the Indiana Fever on August 23.
- Cloud scored 14 points in the Sky's 85-66 loss to the Liberty on August 29.
Timeline
Confrontation between Cloud and Freedom during Sky vs. Fever game.
Sky owner Michael Alter announces Freedom's ban from future games.
Cloud makes first public comments on the incident, calling Freedom 'irrelevant'.
“I won't be talking about anything that happened with an irrelevant person. What I will focus on is what actually affects women and children.”
Background
Freedom was ejected after a confrontation with Cloud, who alleged he said, "She's not going to sleep with you." Video showed Freedom stepping toward the court before security intervened.
Why it matters
The incident highlights a deepening cultural and political divide within the WNBA, pitting a prominent player who advocates for trans-inclusive feminism against a former NBA player who protests the league's eligibility language.