The Cost of Speaking Up for Freedom and Fairness in Sports

Basketball has been a central part of my life. I played in the NBA for 11 seasons, competing against top athletes globally. I understand the dedication and sacrifice needed to reach that level. Yet, I didn’t become a great player under the bright arena lights. My growth occurred in empty gyms—one practice at a time. The small moments, not visible to most, built the big ones that everyone saw.

Former NBA player and activist Enes Kanter Freedom shares a similar insight about courage. It’s recognized in big moments—a speech, a protest, a public stand. Yet, it’s often built in unnoticed instances, like deciding not to let fear dictate your actions.

“Don’t hate anyone before you meet them.”

I grew up in Turkey. A small but pivotal moment in my childhood shaped my outlook. Some neighborhood kids pressured me to burn an American flag. I sought my mother’s advice, and she told me something I hold dear: “Don’t hate anyone before you meet them.”

Years later, I moved to the United States for basketball. I was taken aback when a teammate openly criticized the U.S. president. Criticism of leaders could lead to severe consequences in my home country. But here, it was a right—a freedom.

Speaking out brought personal costs. Despite these costs, I used my platform to speak against human rights abuses in Turkey and President Erdoğan’s government. The consequences were severe: my passport was revoked, arrest warrants issued, and my family suffered. The Turkish government placed a substantial bounty on me.

I also spoke out against the Chinese Communist Party regarding the treatment of various groups. I wore shoes on NBA courts with messages the Chinese government wanted silenced. Again, there were consequences.

These experiences led me to choose “Freedom” as my last name when I became an American citizen. For me, freedom is the right to question authority, challenge institutions, and maintain dignity while speaking truths.

Freedom comes with its own costs. But it’s vital to accept and exercise it, especially when the questions are tough. This belief extends beyond politics and into sports, particularly women’s sports.

Competitive sports highlight the biological differences between men and women. While controversial, these differences matter. Every individual deserves respect—this is a core principle I stand by. However, acknowledging the reality of these differences doesn’t negate the dignity of any person.

We need open conversations about these topics in the spirit of freedom. Female athletes should defend their sports without fear of losing support or reputation. Coaches and parents should voice concerns about fairness without fear.

Freedom requires us to speak up even when it’s easier to remain silent. It’s practiced daily—when cheered and when criticized. Somewhere, a young girl in a gym works tirelessly on her game. She deserves the chance to pursue her dreams and the adults to protect her opportunities.

Big changes start when individuals decide to speak. When enough voices join, what was once courageous becomes common sense.