The escalating tension in Minnesota following the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good at the hands of federal agents has triggered a forceful response from the sports world. The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), invoking the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., broke its silence this weekend with a strong statement demanding justice and solidarity.
The union, which represents NBA athletes, quoted King’s famous words-“There comes a time when silence is betrayal”-to justify its stance on the recent events. In its official statement, the organization was unequivocal: “Following the news of yet another fatal shooting in Minneapolis, a city that has stood at the forefront of the fight against injustice, NBA players can no longer remain silent.”
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The NBPA emphasized the need to protect protesters and rejected social polarization. “Now more than ever, we must defend the right to free expression and stand in solidarity with the people of Minnesota who are protesting and risking their lives in the pursuit of justice,” the statement read. The union also underscored the diversity of its membership: “The brotherhood of NBA players, like the United States itself, is a community enriched by global citizens, and we refuse to allow the flames of division to threaten the civil liberties that are meant to protect us all.”
A united front in Minnesota
The union’s call did not stand alone. In an unprecedented move, Minnesota’s major professional sports franchises-the Vikings (NFL), Wild (NHL), Timberwolves and Lynx (NBA/WNBA), and Minnesota United FC (MLS)-joined dozens of local businesses in signing an open letter addressed to government officials.
“In light of yesterday’s tragic news, we are calling for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and for state, local, and federal officials to work together to find real solutions,” the jointly signed letter stated. It concluded with an appeal for stability: “In this difficult moment for our community, we call for peace and focused cooperation… to achieve a swift and lasting resolution.”
On an individual level, figures such as Warriors head coach Steve Kerr reflected on the crisis ahead of the rescheduled game. “It’s a confusing time to be alive and to be an American… We’re against each other right now,” Kerr said. Meanwhile, WNBA star Breanna Stewart protested by holding a sign reading “Abolish ICE,” joining the broader outcry from a sports world unwilling to ignore the reality unfolding in the streets.
