The Chicago Sky banned former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom from Wintrust Arena following a verbal altercation with Sky guard Natasha Cloud during Sunday's loss to the Indiana Fever. Kanter Freedom, wearing a shirt defining "woman" as "adult human female," was removed by security in the third quarter after standing with arms outstretched and stepping toward the court during a timeout. Sky owner Michael Alter said Kanter Freedom began to "chirp" and engage Cloud to provoke her, noting Cloud's vocal support for LGBTQ+ rights. Alter stated Kanter Freedom demonstrated he is a "potential threat" who cannot control himself, justifying the ban until he proves otherwise.

Kanter Freedom and former NBA player Royce White recently declared themselves women and eligible for the WNBA amid debate sparked by Fever guard Sophie Cunningham's comments on transgender athletes. Multiple sources confirmed they are not eligible. Alter revealed the team learned of Kanter Freedom's attendance only 3½ hours before the game; tickets were not under his name. Sky GM Jeff Pagliocca, who previously worked with Kanter Freedom, received a text from his manager giving a "heads up." Alter said Pagliocca replied "appreciate the text" but denied telling them to enjoy the game.

After removal, Kanter Freedom posted he was kicked out for "supporting WOMEN." Alter disputed claims Kanter Freedom was silent, saying he verbally engaged Cloud in the third quarter. The situation escalated when he stood, pointed at Cloud, and stepped toward the court, prompting security intervention.