Timberwolves players respond to Minneapolis ICE shooting deaths with statement
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Minnesota Timberwolves released a statement from their players regarding the increasing anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) tensions in Minneapolis.
There have been two fatal incidents involving federal immigration officers in Minneapolis in recent weeks amid rising tensions over the crackdown as well as clashes with anti-ICE demonstrators.
Like everyone in the Twin Cities, the Timberwolves were touched by the events and released a statement expressing their “sincere sympathy and love to all.”
CLICK TO GET MORE SPORTS NEWS FOXNEWS.COM
Fans hold signs to protest the presence of federal agents in Minneapolis before the start of the NBA game between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on January 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (David Berding/Getty Images)
“We, the players of the Minnesota Timberwolves, extend our sincere sympathy and love to all those affected by the recent tragic events affecting our communities in the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota,” the statement said. The statement was included. “Minnesota is strongest when we lift up and support each other, and there is no room for hate or division in our great state or among everyone who lives here.
“We mourn the lives lost and send strength, peace and compassion to all who suffer. We believe in the resilience, unity and caring that define Minnesotans and bring our communities together in times of hardship and need.”
The Timberwolves postponed Saturday’s game against the Golden State Warriors after Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old Department of Veterans Affairs ICU nurse, was fatally shot along with a Border Patrol agent.
PROTESTS ARE TAKEN AGAINST ICE DURING THE TWOLVES-WARRIORS NBA MATCH
NBA stated that the game will be played on Sunday, “The decision was made to prioritize the safety and security of the Minneapolis community.” he said.
The next day, NBA fans chanted anti-ICE messages at Target Center, and there were signs throughout the arena saying “ICE out.” A moment of silence was held for Pretti; This was the same protocol that was in place for the Timberwolves following the previous death of Renee Good.
The team observed a moment of silence for Good, 37, who was killed while driving a vehicle that agents told him to get out of, according to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Good refused and “attempted to run them over and crash them with his vehicle,” according to Noem.
A moment of silence was observed for Alex Jeffrey Pretti before the start of the NBA game between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on January 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (David Berding/Getty Images)
“Our thoughts are with his family and everyone affected, and our hearts go out to our community in hope of healing and unity during this challenging time,” Target Center’s public address announcer said.
Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch also spoke before his team’s win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“As we all know, our society has suffered another unspeakable tragedy,” he said. “We would like to extend our condolences, deepest wishes, prayers and thoughts to the families, loved ones and everyone else who has been greatly affected by what happened.”
The National Basketball Players Association also released a statement last Sunday.
“At the forefront of the fight against injustice, NBA players can no longer remain silent following news of a new deadly attack in Minneapolis,” the union said. he said. “Now more than ever, we must defend the right to free speech and stand in solidarity with the people protesting in Minnesota and risking their lives to demand justice.
A demonstrator holds a banner to protest the presence of federal agents in Minneapolis before the start of the NBA game between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center on January 25, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (David Berding/Getty Images)
CLICK TO REACH THE FOX NEWS APPLICATION
“The fraternity of NBA players, like the United States itself, is a community enriched by its global citizens, and we refuse to allow the flames of division to threaten the civil liberties that are supposed to protect us all. While our thoughts continue to be focused on the safety and well-being of all members of our community, the NBPA and its members extend our deepest condolences to the families of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.”
The shooting sparked more protests in the Twin Cities amid a recent increase in ICE activity in the area as part of the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration.
Fox News’ Ryan Gaydos and Ryan Morik contributed to this report.
Follow Fox News Digital Sports streaming on X and subscribe Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
