On Sunday, sports teams, leagues, and athletes spoke out after 37-year-old Alex Pretti was fatally shot by ICE agents in Minneapolis. The Minnesota Timberwolves postponed their Saturday game against the Golden State Warriors in response to the shooting and ongoing protests. Before Sunday’s rescheduled game, the Timberwolves held a moment of silence for Pretti, as they had earlier for Renee Good, who was killed by ICE agents in January.
Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said, “For the second time in less than three weeks, we’ve lost another member of our community in the most unimaginable way. As an organization, we are heartbroken for what we are having to witness and endure and watch.”
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who was in Minneapolis for the game, also spoke out, calling for compassion and unity in difficult times. He noted, “There’s so much out there that is really difficult for all of us to reconcile. In times like these, you have to lean on values and who you are.”
The National Basketball Players Association released a statement urging action and solidarity. “NBA players can no longer remain silent,” the statement read. “We must defend the right to freedom of speech and stand with the people in Minnesota protesting and risking their lives to demand justice.”
Minnesota sports CEOs, including representatives from the Vikings, Timberwolves, Lynx, United FC, and Wild, signed a letter calling for immediate de-escalation and cooperation among state, local, and federal officials to prevent further tragedy.
Individual athletes also voiced their thoughts. WNBA star Breanna Stewart held up a sign saying “Abolish ICE” during her game, emphasizing the need for policies that protect families and communities. Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton labeled Pretti’s death a murder, while Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards expressed support for the Minnesota community. Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns called the events “heartbreaking” and stressed accountability, and Warriors star Stephen Curry praised the protesters’ determination despite freezing temperatures. Timberwolves’ Julius Randle highlighted the human aspect, saying, “Regardless of politics, there’s a human aspect to it… the job as a man is to be the protector of the house.”
The fatal shooting occurred as ICE agents conducted an operation in Minneapolis and St. Paul. According to DHS, agents acted in self-defense after Pretti allegedly resisted disarmament, though eyewitnesses and the victim’s family have disputed that account. Pretti’s death followed Renee Good’s killing on January 7, marking two deadly incidents tied to the immigration crackdown in the city.
The incident has sparked widespread attention in sports and beyond, with teams and athletes using their platforms to call for justice, accountability, and safety in the community.