Ivey's release, though controversial, was likely because his statements were deemed detrimental by the Bulls' front office.
Before suffering a broken left fibula in January 2025, Ivey was having the best season of his career, averaging 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in his third season.
He was on track to get a rookie max extension, which he didn't get last summer.