AFPI Investigates Enes Kanter Freedom’s Removal from Chicago Sky Game

The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) is investigating the removal of Enes Kanter Freedom from a Chicago Sky game and his subsequent ban from Wintrust Arena. AFPI submitted a six-page public-records request to the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.

Public-Records Request

AFPI chief legal affairs officer Leigh Ann O’Neill emphasized Freedom’s constitutional rights. “Enes Freedom exercised his constitutional right as an American when he attended the WNBA game in Chicago,” she stated. The institute is seeking documents to ensure public accountability regarding the incident.

“Today, we launched an investigation, seeking critical documents that will assist in our efforts to ensure that public entities are held accountable when Americans’ constitutional rights are trampled.” — Leigh Ann O’Neill, AFPI

The contentious interaction occurred during a game between the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever. Freedom attended, wearing a shirt stating, “WOMAN noun. adult human female.” A verbal exchange with Sky guard Natasha Cloud led to Freedom’s ejection by arena security.

Investigation Details

AFPI’s request aims to clarify authority over access, security, and event operations at Wintrust Arena. Requested documents include agreements among MPEA, arena operator Oak View Group, the Chicago Sky, and the WNBA. AFPI is also seeking security policies and records of who authorized Freedom’s removal.

MPEA is a municipal corporation created by the Illinois General Assembly. It owns the 10,000-seat Wintrust Arena, operating in partnership with DePaul University. AFPI’s records request does not claim a breach of Freedom’s constitutional rights but seeks information to assess public entity involvement in the incident.

Preservation of Communications

AFPI requested MPEA to preserve potentially relevant emails, texts, and internal communications. While no lawsuit has been filed, the investigation remains active. OutKick contacted MPEA and the Sky for statements on the matter.

Jackson Thompson covers sports for Fox News Digital, focusing on political and cultural issues within sports.