Jaden Ivey Calls Bulls “Liars” After Release

On Monday, Jaden Ivey labeled the Bulls as “liars” after being let go from the team for what was deemed “conduct detrimental to the team.” This decision followed an Instagram livestream where Ivey criticized the NBA’s support for Pride Month.

In recent livestreams, Ivey has made various mentions of religion and has even labeled Catholicism a “false religion.” On Monday night, he took to a familiar platform to address his release, launching into a long and complex tirade about religion and making comments about other NBA players.

“They’re liars, brother. This is a lie,” Ivey asserted during an Instagram Live video, which seemed to be filmed while he was boarding a plane. “They’re lying by saying my actions are detrimental to the team. That’s not true. Just ask any of the coaches: ‘Was I a good teammate?'” He expressed his belief that he was solely spreading the message of Jesus Christ, while feeling abandoned by the team. His frustration was palpable—he referred to himself as “crazy” and a “psycho.”

Ivey mentioned that he was “doing what he needed to do for his job” by training and rehabbing when the Bulls opted to waive him. It’s worth noting that he had paused his season the previous Thursday due to soreness in his left knee.

In a twist, Ivey questioned why the Bulls didn’t outright state their disagreement with his views on LGBTQ matters, despite maintaining that he was a good teammate.

The former Bulls guard also took it upon himself to express skepticism about Stephen Curry’s Christianity. “He doesn’t know who Jesus is. I pray that he finds the truth,” Ivey remarked. “What does it matter on Judgment Day? Every ring he’s got, every ring LeBron James has, all the rings Michael Jordan earned… none of that counts.”

Rumors of Ivey’s release emerged on Monday afternoon, just hours after his latest livestream, marking the third livestream in a single week. Many fans have started to voice their concerns over his behavior.

Bulls head coach Bill Donovan addressed the situation, stating, “There’s a certain level of standards and expectations.” He elaborated, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of the team and the importance of professionalism and respect among players. “We all have to be professionals and hold each other accountable to that standard,” he emphasized.