Chicago Bulls waive guard Jaden Ivey for “conduct detrimental to the team”

The Chicago Bulls made a decisive roster move early Tuesday (Philippine Standard Time), waiving guard Jaden Ivey for “conduct detrimental to the team” following a series of controversial social media posts that drew widespread backlash.

The decision came after Ivey, 24, went live on Instagram on three separate occasions in recent days, using the platform to voice strong opinions on religion and other personal beliefs. During those sessions, he engaged directly with fans in the comments, at one point referring to Catholicism as a “false religion.” However, the situation escalated significantly during a 45-minute livestream in which Ivey made remarks targeting the LGBTQ community, criticizing the NBA’s celebration of Pride Month and calling it an endorsement of “unrighteousness.”

Sources within the organization indicated that these comments ultimately prompted swift internal discussions, culminating in the Bulls’ decision to part ways with the young guard despite his recent arrival to the team.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Head coach Billy Donovan addressed the situation in a media availability, emphasizing the franchise’s long-standing commitment to inclusivity, professionalism, and mutual respect within the organization. While Donovan made it clear he had not personally followed the livestreams in real time, he acknowledged being briefed on the situation by team personnel.

Billy Donovan explains the Bulls cutting Jaden Ivey after the guard posted a homophobic video today.

“Organizationally, there’s certain standards I think we want to have as an organization and live up to those each and every day.” pic.twitter.com/uodtclRUe2

— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) March 30, 2026

“I had not followed or seen that myself, but they had shared with me some of the stuff that was going on. We have been on this road trip. I would say this, at least since I have been with the boys, we have got people in there from all different backgrounds inside the organization. So I think the first thing is how well organized, and this goes for players, coaches, everybody in that building. It’s always been, I think, from the top, we are all going to work well together, we are all going to take care of each other, we are going to accept each other, and we are going to be hardworking, accountable, respectful, and professional – that’s what it’s been,” Donovan said in a media interaction.

Donovan also expressed concern for Ivey on a personal level, while reiterating that organizational standards must be upheld regardless of circumstance.

“I know some of the things that were put out there. I think it’s a situation for him where it’s on his own personal Instagram. I don’t want into what he put out there, but I hope he is okay. I have had conversations with Jaden, and he’s been about having his knee and trying to work to play. Organizationally, there are certain standards we want to have and try and adapt to each and every day,” he added.

Ivey’s tenure in Chicago was brief and largely uneventful on the court. Acquired on February 3, 2026, in a three-team deal, the former lottery pick appeared in just four games for the Bulls before being sidelined for the remainder of the season due to left patellofemoral pain syndrome. His limited availability, combined with the off-court controversy, ultimately made his position with the team untenable.

Originally selected fifth overall by the Detroit Pistons in the 2022 NBA Draft, Ivey entered the league with high expectations as a dynamic scoring guard. However, his 2025–26 campaign proved challenging, as he posted career-low averages of 8.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists across 37 games prior to the trade.

With his rookie contract nearing its end, Ivey is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. His next steps in the league remain uncertain, as teams weigh both his on-court potential and the ramifications of his recent off-court actions.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.