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The Chicago Bulls have released guard Jaden Ivey following controversial remarks he made on social media about the LGBTQ community.
In a statement shared on March 30, the team confirmed that Ivey had been waived due to conduct considered harmful to the organization. The announcement came shortly after the 24 year old posted a video on Instagram criticizing the NBA’s support for Pride Month celebrations.
In the video, Ivey spoke at length about his personal beliefs, questioning the league’s promotion of Pride Month and expressing disagreement with its messaging. His comments quickly drew attention online and sparked widespread discussion.
A few hours after the team’s decision was made public, Ivey addressed the situation in an Instagram Live session. He questioned why his actions were viewed as detrimental, suggesting that he was being penalized for expressing his beliefs. The livestream, which lasted more than 40 minutes, showed him speaking directly to viewers while explaining his perspective.
Ivey has previously been open about his personal faith and has referenced it in his public messaging. During the video, he reiterated his stance and continued to criticize the visibility of Pride Month within the league, arguing that opposing views were not given the same platform.
The situation also prompted a response from Bulls head coach Billy Donovan, who spoke to reporters about the importance of supporting players beyond the court. While he did not directly comment on Ivey’s statements, he emphasized the need for awareness around players’ well being and mental health. He noted that teams should ensure resources are available to players who may be facing personal challenges and encouraged openness in seeking support.
Ivey’s time with the Bulls was brief. He joined the team in early February after being traded and appeared in only a handful of games before a knee injury sidelined him in late March. Before entering the league, he was selected fifth overall in the 2022 NBA Draft.
The team’s decision brings an abrupt end to his stint in Chicago and highlights the broader conversation around personal expression, professional conduct, and inclusivity within sports.