The Chicago Bulls made a decisive roster move that has sparked conversation across the NBA. Yankee Scores reports.
Ivey’s Comments Draw Backlash
Guard Jaden Ivey was waived Monday following anti-LGBTQ statements and religious remarks posted in Instagram videos. In one clip, he criticized the league’s Pride Month celebrations, saying, “They proclaim Pride Month in the NBA… They proclaim it on the billboards. They proclaim it in the streets. Unrighteousness. So how is it that one can’t speak righteousness?”
Bulls Emphasize Respect and Standards
Coach Billy Donovan addressed the situation, stressing that Ivey’s comments did not reflect the organization’s values. “Everybody comes with their own personal experiences, but one is we’ve got to all be professional,” Donovan said. “There’s got to be a high level of respect for one another, and we’ve got to help each other and then be accountable to those standards.”
Ivey Responds on Instagram Live
Hours after being waived, Ivey went live on Instagram from an airplane, continuing to speak about religion. He claimed championship rings won by LeBron James and Michael Jordan “are not gonna matter on judgment day.” He also insisted he “didn’t get myself waived” and suggested teams view him as “too religious.”
Season and Career Context
Chicago acquired Ivey from Detroit in a three-team trade on February 3. He averaged 8.5 points in 37 games this season, including four appearances for the Bulls. He had been sidelined since February 11 with a sore left knee and was shut down for the remainder of the season last week.
What’s Next
The Bulls move forward without Ivey as they continue their season, while the guard’s future in the NBA remains uncertain. Donovan expressed hope for Ivey’s well-being, noting his dedication to rehab and desire to return to the court, but emphasized the importance of organizational standards.
