CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago Bulls have waived guard Jaden Ivey after the 24-year-ancient made public comments deemed “detrimental to the team,” according to a statement released Monday. The decision comes after Ivey voiced strong objections to the NBA’s celebration of Pride Month and made other controversial statements on social media.
The Bulls announced the move after Ivey posted a lengthy video on his Instagram account criticizing the league’s support for the LGBTQ+ community. The team cited “conduct detrimental to the team” as the reason for the waiver, effectively ending Ivey’s brief tenure in Chicago. He was acquired by the Bulls from the Detroit Pistons in February.
Ivey’s Comments Spark Controversy
During the Instagram livestream, Ivey questioned the NBA’s promotion of Pride Month, stating, “They proclaim Pride Month and the NBA does, too. They show it to the world. They say, ‘Come join us for Pride Month to celebrate unrighteousness.’ They proclaim it on the billboards. They proclaim it on the streets.” His remarks quickly drew widespread criticism and prompted the Bulls to take action.
Ivey, who was drafted fifth overall by the Pistons in 2022, had previously expressed his religious beliefs, but his recent comments were particularly pointed. According to ESPN, his rhetoric intensified after being sidelined with an injury last Thursday, leading to concerns within the Bulls organization. He had been shut down for the remainder of the season due to the injury prior to the release of the video.
Following the Bulls’ decision, Ivey responded on Instagram, questioning the team’s rationale. “They said my conduct is detrimental to the team,” he stated. “Why didn’t they just say, ‘We don’t agree with his stance on LGBTQ’? Why didn’t they say that? … How is it conduct detrimental to the team? What did I do to the team? What did I do to the players?”
A Promising Career Interrupted
Ivey’s journey to the NBA was marked by early promise. He played college basketball at Purdue University, earning consensus second-team All-American honors in 2022 and first-team All-Big Ten recognition. His athleticism and scoring ability made him a highly sought-after prospect, and the Pistons selected him with a top-five pick.
Though, injuries have hampered his professional career. He played only 30 games in the 2024-25 season and was limited to four appearances for the Bulls before being waived. Prior to joining the Bulls, Ivey had openly shared his religious convictions while with the Pistons, but his recent statements reportedly created friction within the Chicago locker room. Sources indicated that some Bulls staff members referred to him as a “preacher.”
Bulls coach Billy Donovan addressed the situation Monday, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and respect within the team. “There’s a certain level of expectations and standards here,” Donovan said. “Each person comes with their own background, right? But we all have to show professionalism, respect each other, and assist each other, while respecting those standards.”
The situation highlights the growing intersection of athletics and social issues, and the challenges teams face in navigating players’ personal beliefs and public statements. The NBA has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, and the league’s Pride Month celebrations are a visible demonstration of that commitment.
Ivey’s release marks a significant turning point in his young career. While his talent is undeniable, his recent actions have raised questions about his fit within the NBA’s evolving social landscape. It remains to be seen what the future holds for the former lottery pick.
The Bulls’ decision to waive Ivey underscores the league’s commitment to inclusivity and its willingness to take a firm stance against discriminatory rhetoric. The incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with being a public figure in professional sports.
As of Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Ivey is a free agent. His next move remains uncertain, but the controversy surrounding his comments will undoubtedly be a factor for any team considering signing him.
What’s Next: The Chicago Bulls will continue their season without Ivey, focusing on their playoff push. Their next game is scheduled for April 3rd against the Milwaukee Bucks. Ivey’s future in the NBA remains unclear.
Archysport will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
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