Former No. 5 overall pick Jaden Ivey was waived by the Chicago Bulls this week following significant backlash over a string of social media rants that featured anti-gay remarks and pointed criticism of the NBA’s promotion of Pride Month.
His situation has sparked reactions not only within the sports world but also among individuals who share his religious views and beliefs. One sports personality who weighed in on the matter is former NFL safety Ryan Clark.
According to Clark, Ivey was not released solely because of his comments, but also because he became a liability for the Chicago Bulls. The former NFL player added that if Ivey possessed the talent level of Anthony Edwards, he likely would not have been waived.
“If Jaden Ivey was Anthony Edwards he would still be on the team,” Clark tweeted.
“Jaden Ivey’s release isn’t just about the consequences of free speech. It’s about the tolerance that extreme talent affords you. Had he played more … in the past three years, his actions could be forgiven.”
Clark added that Ivey’s remarks were not unusual in today’s climate and expressed well wishes for him moving forward.
“It’s not uncommon to hear the things he said in today’s political & religious climate. He’s just not good enough to say it. It feels like he’s going through something, & I pray those close to him are there with him through this time.”
Recap of Jaden Ivey’s NBA Career Before Being Waived
The Chicago Bulls announced Monday that they had released Jaden Ivey “due to conduct detrimental to the team,” bringing his short tenure in Chicago to an end less than two months after acquiring him from the Detroit Pistons at the trade deadline.
Ivey began his NBA career during the Pistons’ rebuilding phase. He was viewed as a potential backcourt partner for Cade Cunningham, showcasing athleticism and high upside, but injuries hindered his development.
The most serious setback occurred in January 2025, when then-Orlando Magic guard Cole Anthony struck his leg.
He returned this season, but with the Pistons moving in a different direction, they traded him to the Bulls in exchange for Kevin Huerter.
Ivey averaged 19.2 points, 5.1 assists and 4.5 rebounds per game with the Pistons, including 17.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 33 games this season before being traded.
He appeared in four games with the Bulls, averaging 14.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 2.5 steals per game.
Prior to being waived, Ivey had already been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a sore left knee.
