The Saad Truth with Dr. Saad Enes Kanter Freedom - Former NBA Star and Author of In the Name of Freedom (The Saad Truth with Dr. Saad_893)
Oct 9, 2025
Enes Kanter Freedom, a former NBA star and passionate human rights advocate, shares insights from his life and new book, In the Name of Freedom. He discusses his childhood lessons against hatred and transformative experiences, such as attending a Shabbat dinner that shifted his perspectives on Jewish culture. Enes also highlights his activism supporting Uyghurs and organizing Jewish-Palestinian basketball camps, despite facing immense personal cost and pressure from the NBA. The conversation blends sports anecdotes with deep reflections on faith, politics, and courage.
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Childhood Promise That Shaped His Mission
- As a child Enes refused to burn an American flag and promised his mother never to hate anyone before meeting them.
- That promise shaped his lifelong mission to counter propaganda and promote understanding.
Politicians Weaponize Religion For Power
- Enes stresses that politicians exploit religion and anti-Western sentiment to secure votes.
- He distinguishes Islam from the political uses of religion that fuel hatred and propaganda.
First Shabbat Invitation Broke Stereotypes
- Enes described his first encounter with a Jewish friend in the U.S. and his initial shock at being invited to a Shabbat dinner.
- The experience dismantled stereotypes and inspired him to bridge religious divides through personal connection.
