Oklahoma City — Former Oklahoma City Thunder star Enes Kanter Freedom returned to Oklahoma City this month not just as a former professional athlete, but as a familiar face coming home to the community that helped shape him.
Freedom dedicated his visit to supporting local nonprofit organizations and serving those in need across the Oklahoma City metro.
On his latest visit, Freedom’s first stop was the Giving Machine in Bricktown — an interactive vending machine that allows visitors to purchase essential items for local charities. Weeks before his visit, Freedom recorded a video encouraging residents to visit the Chickasaw Ballpark in Bricktown and participate in the Giving Machine initiative.
Overflowing with excitement, he shared that he couldn’t wait to return to Oklahoma City and support the cause in person.
From left, Enes Kanter Freedom with Oklahoma philanthropist Mary Blankenship Pointer at the 2017 ‘Friendship Dinner,’ where he was named “Humanitarian of the Year.’ At the same event, Pointer received the Global Vision Award.
File Photo by Nazarene Harris, for CityNewsOKC (formerly The Oklahoma City Sentinel).
The following morning, Freedom was up bright and early to volunteer at the 79th annual Red Andrews Christmas Dinner, a longtime Oklahoma City tradition that brings holiday meals, warmth, and fellowship to members of the community. Freedom spent the day greeting guests, and sharing conversations, helping create moments of joy and comfort for families and individuals alike during the holiday season.
Freedom’s connection to Oklahoma runs far deeper than his years on the basketball court. After spending several seasons in Oklahoma City, he says the relationships he built here left a lasting impression on his heart. From fans and volunteers to families he’s met through charitable work, Freedom describes the people of Oklahoma as welcoming, genuine, and family-oriented — values that continue to draw him back.
“Oklahoma will always be my home,” Freedom said.
“I love the people here. They are my family.”
His return served as a powerful reminder that his legacy in Oklahoma extends far beyond basketball.
Through compassion, service, and an unwavering commitment to giving back, Enes Kanter Freedom continues to honor the community that embraced him — proving that some bonds, once formed, never fade.
He is making a habit of this. In November, he helped secure a significant contribution of food for Skyline (formerly Skyline Urban Ministries) in south Oklahoma City.
NOTES: Mary Blankenship Pointer writes from time to time for CityNewsOKC.com .