In a surprising turn of events, Jaden Ivey found himself at the heart of a storm this week, leading to the Chicago Bulls deciding to waive him. The move came after Ivey's controversial social media activity, where he shared his religious views through Instagram live videos, including anti-LGBTQ comments and a direct call-out of Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
— TreVeyon Henderson (@TreVeyonH4) March 31, 2026
Matthew 5:10 https://t.co/CTpkaMx0oT
While Ivey's actions drew widespread criticism, he received unexpected backing from TreVeyon Henderson, the New England Patriots running back. Henderson took to X to share a Bible verse, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." This support highlights the shared faith between the two athletes, as Henderson has been vocal about how his beliefs have shaped his career and personal life.
Ivey's comments extended to criticizing the NBA's celebration of Pride Month, labeling it as "unrighteous." Meanwhile, Henderson, who was drafted by the Patriots in 2025, credits his faith with guiding him through challenging times, stating that it helped him overcome "dark thoughts."
Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan addressed the situation, emphasizing the need for professionalism and respect within the team, given the diverse backgrounds of its members. Donovan also highlighted the critical role of mental health resources for athletes, underscoring the importance of support systems in navigating the pressures of professional sports.
This incident serves as a reminder of the complex intersection between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities, especially in the public eye.