New information has come to light regarding Jaden Ivey’s behavior before his departure from the Chicago Bulls.
Joe Cowley from the Chicago Sun-Times reported that during Ivey’s short stay in Chicago, he often asked reporters if they had been “saved” and questioned them about premarital activities.
Cowley noted that Bulls players were not particularly upset about Ivey’s exit, as he had become a distraction.
The Bulls released Ivey on Monday, only hours after he labeled the NBA’s Pride Night as a celebration of “unrighteousness.” The team indicated his release was due to conduct harmful to team dynamics, likely linked to his interactions with the media.
Ivey had recently shared several lengthy videos on social media where he expressed strong religious views, leading some to express concern about his mental well-being.
The former Purdue standout was selected as the No. 5 overall draft pick by the Detroit Pistons in 2022 and was named an All-Rookie in 2023. He had a notable high point with an average of 17.6 points per game in the 2024-25 season, but injuries, including a serious one last season, hindered his progress. He was traded to the Bulls in a three-team deal last month but played only four games before being sidelined for the season due to a knee injury.