Wembanyama 'Horrified' by Minneapolis ICE Shootings

The Spurs star spoke out against the killings by federal agents, voicing concerns as a French national living in the U.S.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:39pm

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San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama expressed horror at the recent shootings by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis that left multiple civilians dead. As a French national living in the U.S., Wembanyama acknowledged his hesitancy to speak out fully on the issue due to fears of repercussions as a foreigner. The NBA Players Association has also condemned the violence and encouraged players to use their platforms to demand accountability.

Why it matters

The ICE shootings in Minneapolis have sparked outrage and protests, raising concerns about the use of excessive force by federal agents and the treatment of immigrants and minorities. Wembanyama's comments as a high-profile international athlete add to the growing calls for justice and reform.

The details

On January 7 and January 24, ICE agents in Minneapolis shot and killed 37-year-old poet Renee Good and 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti. The killings led to widespread protests and calls for accountability, with the Trump administration siding with the agents. The scheduled NBA game between the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves was postponed after Pretti's death, and the NBPA released a statement encouraging players to speak out against the violence.

  • On January 7, ICE agents shot and killed Renee Good.
  • On January 24, ICE agents shot and killed Alex Pretti.
  • The NBA game between the Warriors and Timberwolves was postponed after Pretti's death on January 24.

The players

Victor Wembanyama

A 22-year-old French professional basketball player who plays for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA.

Renee Good

A 37-year-old poet who was shot and killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis on January 7.

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old ICU nurse who was shot and killed by ICE agents in Minneapolis on January 24.

Jaylen Brown

The vice president of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).

Julian Champagnie

A forward for the San Antonio Spurs.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think that people should be dying. I stand with those people. That's really all I have to say about it. It's just a tough situation all around, but I think the violence is the main thing that has to stop.”

— Julian Champagnie, Spurs forward (San Antonio Express-News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the ICE agents involved in the shootings to be released on bail.

The takeaway

Wembanyama's comments highlight the growing outrage over the use of excessive force by federal agents and the need for greater accountability and reform to protect the rights and lives of all citizens, including immigrants and minorities, in the United States.