Report: Celtics' Kanter changing name to Enes Kanter Freedom

Boston Celtics big man Enes Kanter is legally changing his name to Enes Kanter Freedom, sources told The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Freedom will become the 10-year pro's last name, with Kanter becoming his middle name, notes Charania. The change will reportedly take effect as he becomes a U.S. citizen Monday.

Kanter wore the word "Freedom" on the back of his jersey when the NBA allowed players to sport social justice messages instead of their last names in the Walt Disney World bubble in 2020.

The 29-year-old has long been an advocate for human rights, criticizing his former country of Turkey and, more recently, China - leading the latter nation to ban Celtics games from its programming.

He also recently spoke out about Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and Nike, unveiling shoes in protest of the company's labor practices and relationship with China. James responded by saying he "won't give his energy" to Kanter's disapproval, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin.

Kanter has suited up in just nine games for the Celtics this season, averaging 4.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per contest.