Christian Pro Athletes Rally Behind Jaden Ivey After NBA Dismissal

Several players voice support for Bulls guard's biblical stance on sexual morality

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:34pm

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NBA player Jaden Ivey was released from the Chicago Bulls this week after expressing Christian beliefs that sexual immorality and pride are 'unrighteousness.' In response, multiple professional athletes have come to Ivey's defense, similarly standing firm on their religious convictions.

Why it matters

Ivey's dismissal highlights the growing tension between traditional Christian values and the increasing embrace of LGBTQ+ inclusion in major professional sports leagues. The controversy underscores the challenges faced by religious athletes who seek to openly practice their faith in a climate that often prioritizes progressive social causes.

The details

Ivey, a second-year guard for the Bulls, was cut from the team after making comments condemning Pride Month celebrations and declaring that the NBA's promotion of LGBTQ+ pride goes against his Christian beliefs. Several other pro athletes, including NFL players and Ivey's former college teammates, have since voiced their support for Ivey, affirming his right to freely express his religious views.

  • Ivey was released from the Chicago Bulls on April 3, 2026.
  • The NBA's annual Pride Month celebrations typically take place in June.

The players

Jaden Ivey

A second-year guard who was recently released from the Chicago Bulls after expressing his Christian beliefs about sexual morality.

Chicago Bulls

The NBA team that dismissed Jaden Ivey following his comments about Pride Month and LGBTQ+ inclusion.

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What they’re saying

“They proclaim Pride Month. And the NBA, they proclaim it. 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 in the streets. Unrighteousness,”

— Jaden Ivey, Former Chicago Bulls player

What’s next

Ivey has indicated he plans to continue speaking out about his Christian beliefs, despite facing professional consequences. It remains to be seen if other religious athletes will follow his lead or if the NBA will take further action to address the growing tensions around LGBTQ+ inclusion and religious expression.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing clash between the sports world's embrace of progressive social causes and the religious convictions of some athletes. As professional leagues seek to promote diversity and inclusion, they must also navigate the complex issue of respecting the free exercise of religion among their players.