San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama broke from team public relations guidance to publicly condemn fatal shootings by federal agents in Minnesota, calling the incidents horrifying and unacceptable.
Player Speaks Against PR Advice
The French basketball phenom acknowledged going against his team’s media advisors when addressing reporters Tuesday after practice. Despite not being a United States citizen, Wembanyama felt compelled to speak out about the controversial law enforcement incidents that have sparked protests across Minneapolis. He rejected giving what he called a politically correct response, stating he wakes up daily horrified by news coverage of the events.
Victor Wembanyama’s full comments today on the shooting of another civilian by federal agents in Minneapolis:
“PR has tried, but I'm not going to sit here and give some politcally correct [answer]. Every day I see the news and I'm horrified. I think it's crazy that some people… pic.twitter.com/YpkUbP1E6D
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) January 27, 2026
The 21-year-old center specifically criticized any suggestion that civilian deaths during law enforcement operations could be considered acceptable. His comments came as investigations continue into the shootings of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse, and Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three children.
Minnesota Immigration Enforcement Controversy
The fatal shootings occurred during a large-scale immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis, triggering widespread community unrest and protests despite freezing winter temperatures. Federal agents were conducting what authorities described as routine immigration enforcement activities when the incidents took place. Both victims were reportedly civilians with no apparent connection to immigration violations, according to local reports.
Law enforcement agencies have not released detailed accounts of either shooting. No criminal charges have been filed against any federal agents involved in the incidents. The shootings have intensified existing tensions between Minneapolis residents and federal immigration authorities operating in the area.
What This Means
Wembanyama’s public stance represents a rare instance of an international NBA player directly criticizing United States law enforcement practices. His willingness to speak despite team guidance reflects growing athlete activism on social justice issues. The ongoing investigations will likely determine whether federal agents followed proper protocols during the immigration enforcement operation that resulted in two civilian deaths.
I’d be curious to know why Victor hasn’t spoken out about all the murders of American citizens by illegal aliens? Oh….wait….due to over 2M deportations, the murder rate in America is at a 125 year low so….smfh….
JUST DRIBBLE THE BALL!!!….
The guy is entitled to his opinion, and I agree, especially as to the second shooting that seems to be an outrage. But, with all the evil in the streets of Minneapolis, this is certainly not the first thing to speak out about.
Much is staged and illegal interference with, in most case, legal law enforcement. These demonstrators seem to care little about the criminal history of most being taken into custody. The whole thing is very political, and the brainless governor and city officials are a big part of the problem
You only hear what your itching ears want to hear. Minneapolis is a clear case of insurrection. Their leadership refused to acknowlege the rule of law. They don’t see the reality of it. Much of what you’re witnessing is a COVER UP for the theft and fraud. Corruption. Sinful city. To be lawless is to be contrary to the law or to act without regard to be law. Laws are necessarty in a sinful world, and those who choose to act lawlessly further sin in the world.The root of all lawlessness is rebellion. Let ICE do their jobs. To get the worst of the wors out. Please just win the games to get to The Finals.
Opps. Sorry. *the law
Who cares, anyway? The NBA is moving to China. Good riddance.