The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe 453: Enes Kanter Freedom—In the Name of Freedom
Oct 7, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Enes Kanter Freedom, a former NBA center and passionate human rights activist, recounts his harrowing experiences growing up in Turkey and the repercussions of his outspoken criticism of authoritarianism. He shares how he transformed basketball shoes into powerful symbols of protest against government abuses. From facing exile to grappling with the NBA's pressures, Enes reflects on his moral journey and the importance of standing up for freedom, while promoting his book, In the Name of Freedom.
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Human Rights Speech Becomes Personal Risk
- Speaking out about Turkey's 2013 corruption scandal made Enes a target and triggered reprisals against his family.
- He frames his criticism as human rights advocacy, not partisan politics.
Family Raided And Passport Revoked
- Enes recounts police raiding his family's home, his father's jail time, and his passport being revoked.
- He was placed on Interpol and restricted to travel to only 29 countries, with risk of extradition.
Bounty And FBI Protection
- After visiting the Pope in 2022, Enes says Turkey put a bounty on his head and the FBI warned him to return to the U.S.
- He now travels with security and a panic button provided by the FBI for protection on the road.
