Former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom has responded to WNBA player Natasha Cloud's Fourth of July weekend comments where she labeled America "trash in so many ways." In an appearance on "Fox & Friends," Kanter Freedom questioned Cloud's perspective, suggesting a lack of awareness among some professional athletes about global realities and the privileges afforded to them in the United States.
He emphasized the freedom of speech enjoyed in America, a right often taken for granted. Kanter Freedom expressed his desire to educate athletes like Cloud about the lack of such freedoms in many other parts of the world.
Cloud's initial comments on Twitter sparked controversy. She criticized the country for oppressing marginalized groups and prioritizing political agendas over addressing systemic issues affecting Black/brown communities and the LGBTQ+ community.
Kanter Freedom responded by offering to fund a first-class trip for Cloud and other athletes with similar viewpoints to visit countries with oppressive regimes. He specifically mentioned China, Russia, Iran, and Turkey, highlighting the potential consequences of criticizing governments in those nations, including imprisonment and torture. He attributed Cloud's stance to either ignorance or, worse, a genuine disdain for the United States.
Kanter Freedom referenced Brittney Griner's detainment in Russia, suggesting that Griner's experience changed her perspective on America. He encouraged others to learn from Griner's situation and appreciate the freedoms they have in the U.S.
Cloud later doubled down on her criticism, addressing those who suggested she move to Russia or China. She highlighted various societal problems in America, including healthcare access, school shootings, white supremacy, maternal mortality rates, police brutality, mass incarceration, minimum wage, and women's rights. She argued that America's potential is squandered by politicians who prioritize personal gain and sow division. She concluded by stating that "America is a business."
