Minnesota NBA Fans Interrupt Tribute for Alex Pretti with Strong Statement

The Minnesota Timberwolves game on Sunday became the backdrop for a powerful tribute to Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse tragically killed by federal agents in Minneapolis. During a moment of silence, spectators vocalized their outrage against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with chants of “Fuck ICE.”

Tribute to Alex Pretti

As fans filled the Target Center, an announcement acknowledged Pretti’s untimely passing. His photo illuminated the scoreboard while the public address announcer expressed condolences: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Alex Pretti.” Following this, a moment of silence was requested.

However, after several seconds of quiet, the jumbotron went dark, prompting a wave of expressions from the crowd. This emotional outburst demonstrated the community’s frustration with federal actions in the area.

Demonstrations During the Game

The protests did not end with the moment of silence. During the second quarter, fans rallied further, chanting “ICE out!” as captured by Warriors reporter Joseph Dycus. Supporters also brandished signs stating “ICE OUT” throughout the arena.

• Fans expressed their discontent through chants and signs.
• The Timberwolves dunk squad wore “ICE Out” T-shirts, emphasizing their solidarity.
• Videos of these protests circulated widely on social media.

This game followed a one-day delay that related directly to the circumstance of Pretti’s death, which involved the U.S. Border Patrol. There has been a growing response against the presence of federal agents in Minneapolis, igniting larger conversations around public safety and immigration enforcement.

Context and Background

The protests were a response to not only Pretti’s death but also the recent fatal shooting of another victim, Renee Good, by federal agents. This situation arises from actions taken during the Trump administration, which deployed ICE and Border Patrol agents to Minnesota despite opposition from local officials, including Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey.

Eyewitness accounts and video evidence challenge official narratives that have attempted to label the victims as domestic terrorists. Instead, the community stands united, expressing their grief and anger toward the federal policies that led to these tragic events.

As the Timberwolves faced the Golden State Warriors, who won the game 111-85, the focus was not solely on the score but also on the heartfelt protests that resonated throughout the stadium. These strong statements from fans highlight a deeper issue regarding federal actions in their community.