Timberwolves Players Release Statement on ICE Tensions in Minneapolis

Players express sympathy for community amid rising ICE activity and fatal incidents involving federal agents.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Minnesota Timberwolves players released a statement expressing their "sincere sympathies and love" to the Minneapolis community that has been impacted by recent tragic events involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The statement comes after two fatal incidents in recent weeks in the city, leading to heightened tensions and protests against ICE operations.

Why it matters

The Timberwolves' statement reflects the broader impact these ICE-related incidents have had on the Minneapolis community, including the team and its players. As a prominent local organization, the Timberwolves are using their platform to show solidarity and support for their city during a challenging time.

The details

The Timberwolves postponed a game against the Golden State Warriors in the aftermath of the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old VA nurse, by a Border Patrol agent. The following day, NBA fans delivered anti-ICE messages at Target Center, and the team held a moment of silence for Renee Good, 37, who was killed while operating a vehicle that agents ordered her to exit. The National Basketball Players Association also released a statement condemning the violence and supporting the right to protest.

  • In recent weeks, there have been two fatal incidents in Minneapolis involving federal immigration agents.
  • On January 29, 2026, the Timberwolves postponed their game against the Golden State Warriors.
  • On January 30, 2026, NBA fans delivered anti-ICE messages at Target Center, and the Timberwolves held a moment of silence.

The players

Minnesota Timberwolves

A professional basketball team in the National Basketball Association (NBA) based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Chris Finch

The head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

National Basketball Players Association

The labor union that represents professional basketball players in the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We, the Minnesota Timberwolves players, extend our sincere sympathies and love to everyone across the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota who has been affected by the recent tragic events impacting our communities. Minnesota is strongest when we uplift and support one another, and there is no room for hatred or division across our great state or among all who live here.”

— Minnesota Timberwolves players

“As we all know, our community has suffered yet another unspeakable tragedy. We want to just convey our condolences and heartfelt wishes and prayers and thoughts to the families and loved ones and all of those that are greatly affected by what happened.”

— Chris Finch, Head Coach, Minnesota Timberwolves

“Following the news of yet another fatal shooting in Minneapolis, a city that has been on the forefront of the fight against injustices, NBA players can no longer remain silent. Now more than ever, we must defend the right to freedom of speech and stand in solidarity with the people in Minnesota protesting and risking their lives to demand justice.”

— National Basketball Players Association

What’s next

The Timberwolves are expected to hold additional community events and initiatives to support Minneapolis residents affected by the recent ICE-related incidents.

The takeaway

The Timberwolves' statement and actions demonstrate the important role that sports teams and athletes can play in addressing social and political issues impacting their local communities. Their show of solidarity and support for Minneapolis residents during this challenging time is a powerful example of using their platform for positive change.