The Chicago Bulls have released 24-year-old guard Jaden Ivey following remarks he made supporting his religious beliefs and opposing Pride Month.
Ivey had a brief stint with the Bulls, having been traded from the Detroit Pistons in early February, playing only four games.
“God did not create humans to be with humans,” he stated.
His dismissal came after he voiced his views on LGBTQ issues in a post on Instagram. As a result, his contract may now be up for grabs by other teams.
“The world can declare LGBTQ, they can declare Pride Month; the NBA can declare it,” Ivy remarked from his car.
“God did not create men to be with men. God did not create girls to be with girls. God created men to reproduce to have another child,” he elaborated.
The Bulls quickly addressed his statements, officially announcing his release shortly after the comments.
“The Chicago Bulls announced today that they have terminated guard Jaden Ivey for conduct detrimental to the team,” they said in a statement shared on social media.
Prior to the game that evening, Bulls head coach Billy Donovan emphasized to reporters the importance of certain standards within the organization.
“We have individuals from many different backgrounds within the organization,” Donovan said after a question about Ivey’s situation.
“We’re here to support one another and accept one another. We strive to be diligent, respectful, and professional,” he added.
Donovan concluded by stating that the organization aims to uphold specific standards every day.
In response, Ivey took to social media that night, questioning the team’s stance.
“Why didn’t they say, ‘We don’t agree with his position on LGBTQ?'” he asked.
“Is it because I believe in the truth, and I know that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life?”
Ivey continued, “This is not about me, but the kingdom of God. This revolves around the truth of the Bible. I’ve spoken what the truth is. The word of God will be preached to all nations, and then the end will come.”
Ivey is currently in the last year of his rookie contract, which is valued at around $33 million over four years.
If he doesn’t secure a deal with another team within the next 48 hours, the Bulls will be responsible for the remaining portion of his contract, making him a free agent.
