Former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom found himself at the center of another controversy after being ejected from a WNBA game following a heated exchange with Chicago Sky guard Natasha Cloud. The incident quickly went viral, generating discussion both about Kanter’s actions and Cloud’s decision to confront him during the game.
On The Odd Couple, Kelvin Washington did not hold back when discussing the situation.
“Kanter is an idiot.”
Washington explained that while some people may agree with the broader issues Kanter claims to be advocating for, he believes the former NBA player has lost sight of meaningful conversation.
According to Washington, Kanter’s public appearances and viral moments are designed more to attract attention than create real change. He argued that legitimate discussions can be had on controversial topics, but said Kanter’s approach ultimately shifts the focus back onto himself.
“He is very much a product of the 2020s where it’s about me. It’s about me building my brand. It’s about me causing a fuss.”
Washington also criticized former NBA player Royce White, suggesting both men have become more focused on generating headlines than advancing productive dialogue. He pointed to the fact that the conversation surrounding the incident quickly became about Kanter’s behavior rather than the game itself.
Meanwhile, co-host Ephraim Salaam agreed that Kanter’s actions had become a distraction but also questioned Natasha Cloud’s decision to engage during live game action.
“We’re talking about the buffoonery and not the game.”
Salaam argued that players should avoid allowing outside distractions to impact their focus on the court, regardless of how provocative the situation may be.
“As a starting guard in a game, you took that time to go and approach something that has nothing to do with the actual game you’re playing in.”
While Washington understood Salaam’s perspective, he maintained that Kanter accomplished exactly what he intended by turning the attention back to himself and away from basketball.
“He hijacked the moment, and now he’s hijacking our show.”
The debate ultimately came down to whether Kanter succeeded in drawing attention to his cause or simply reinforced criticism that his methods prioritize controversy over constructive conversation. Either way, the incident became one of the most talked-about moments of the weekend, overshadowing the action on the court.
Watch the full discussion below and subscribe to The Odd Couple’s YouTube channel for more sports talk and analysis.